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AN ALTOBIOGRAPHY, 

WITH 

DETAILS OF A VISIT TO ENGLAND, 



S03IE ACCOUNT OF THE HISTORY OF THE iMEETING STREET 
BAPTIST CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I., ANT) OF 
THE SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH, PHILA- 
DELPHIA, PA, 

BY 

KEY. JEEEMIAH ASHER, 

'WITH 

AN INTRODUCTION, 

BY 

REV. J. WHEATON S^HTH. 



"Mislike me not for my complexion, 

The shadowed livery of the bTimin.g siui^'"C » 



"ie 



' PHILADELPHIA :'^Vyasluo|^,^ 

PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR. 

1302. 



A R A 



PREFACE, 



This little book goes forth into the world making a 
humble bow, but no apology. During the past few years, 
I have been frequently requested by friends, and many of 
the members of the church with whom it has been my 
privilege to labor for twelve years, to give some account of 
my birth, parentage, conversion, call to the ministry, and 
labors up to the present time, After taking counsel of 
valued brethren in whose judgment I confide, and prayer- 
fully considering my duty, I have yielded to the request of 
my friends, and now present my plain, unvarnished tale. 
I offer nothing but a simple narrative of facts, which, 
divested though they may be of stirring and romantic 
incident, I trust may, under the blessing of God, encour- 
age many who, without education, may be called to the 
work of the Grospel ministry. If this book shall aid any 
such, and help them to overcome the difficulties and em- 
barrassments with which they may be called to meet, I 

shall feel not only that I am amply compensated for my 

Ciii; 



IV PREFACE. 

labor, but that I have done some good service to the cause 
of my Master. 

The following sketch of my Kfe is written in humble 
dependence on God. I have endeavored to relate nothing 
but facts, and have been guided, I trust, in every line, by 
the spirit of the truth. With regard to individuals, I 
have, *' nothing extenuated, nor set down aught in 
malice.'' 

Praying that the great Head of the Church will deign 
to bless this my humble and unpretending child for the 
advancement of His own glory, I send it forth into the 
church and the world. — J, A. 

Philadelphia, 1862. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

Birth — Parentage — Capture of my Grandfather— ^His Treatment on Board 
the Vessel — The American Kevolution — Death of my Grandfather, . 1 

CHAPTER n. 

Religious Concern — My Father's Suspicions and Threats — Continued Dis- 
tress — Thoughts of-Ap?5stacy — First Baptist Preaching, and First Bai>- 
tism in North Brantford, ,.....,. 7 

CHAPTER ni. 

I become Negligent of Religion — Engage my Serrices to Hon. Mr. Ells- 
worth — Alarming Sickness — Attentions of Mrs. Ellsworth — Recov- 
ery — My Father's Sickness and Recovery — I am again ill — 3Ir. Ells- 
worth's Misfortune — My Marriage, and Loss of a Child, , , ,16 

CHAPTER IT. 

Engagement with Mr, Williams — Sickness of my Wife — My Baptism — 
Birth and Death of a Child — Views upon a *' Call to the Ministry" — 
ProTidential Means Provided to Prepare for the Work thereof, . . 22 

CHAPTER V. 

Going into Business — Failure — Beturn to Hartford — Distress of Mind — 
Church Trials — Mutual Conference — Defence cf the Right — Settle- 
• ment of the DiSculty, = .«.,,.,.. 33 

(v) 



VI CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER VI. 

Resignation of Kev. Hemy Jackson — Services of Independent Colared 
Church — Embarrassment from Loss of a Minister — Ordination of Rev. 
J. b. Eaton, ...,,..» ... 43 

CHAPTER YII. 

My First Sermon — Preach before the First Baptist Church, Hartford — 
Receive its Approbation and a License, •. . . . . .51 

CHAPTER Till. 

Leave for Providence, R. L — Providential Aid — Commence a Course of 
Study — Proposal to go to Kewton Theological Seminary — Project 
Abandoned — Return Home — Start for Philadelphia — Heavy Sleep- 
ing — Preach in New York and Philadelphia, . . . . » 58 

CHAPTER IX. 

Return, to Providence — Organization of the Church— Ordination — My 
First Baptism — A Strange Visitor — Additions* to the Church — Bap- 
tism of my Wife — Advantages of Opposition — Meeting-House Re- 
paired — Resignation,. 68 

CHAPTER X. 

Resignation Accepted— Visit Philadelphia and Washington — Accept the 
Call of tire Shiloh Baptist Church — Installation — Baptism — Prepara- 
tion for Departure to England — Official Documents, . . . .78 

CHAPTER XI. 

My Departure — Incidents of the Voyage — Death and Funeral on Ship- 
board — Arrival at Liverpool — First Contributions, ... 87 

CHAPTER XII. 

Arrival in Liverpool — Consultation with Ministers — Visit London— Leave 
for Bristol — Postponement of Effort — Proceed to Cheltenham— Thence 
to Birmingham — Comniencemcnt of fcuccchs, 96 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER XIII. 



Rettim to Bristol — Preach at Broadmead — Visit Ashton — Success and 
Treatment in Bristol — Proceed thence to Trowhridge — Frome — Bath 
Cheltenham, Gloucester, and Oxford — Impressions of Oxford — Recep- 
tion in Leamington — Kev. Octavius Winslow, 106 

CHAPTER Xn^ 

Return to Birmingham — News from Home — Liverpool — Kindly Greet- 
ings — Rochdale, and Ashlon-under-Lyne, . ..... 117 



CHAPTER XY. 

Bacnp — Singular Introduction to a Bible Class — Poor Lodgings — Ashing- 
ton, Blackburn, Preston, and Hebdon Bridge — Gratifying Success at 
Salendine Nook — Halifax — Reception at Bradford — Leeds — Import- 
ant Document from the Baptists of Yorkshire — Singular Proceeding 
in Wakefield, 126 



CHAPTER XYI. 

A Pleasant Week in Northampton — A Happy Conversion — Arrival in 
London — Introductions, 141 



CHAPTER XYIL 

Rev. Dr. Brock— Samuel Peto, Esq., M. P.— Visit to the To-^er— Sab- 
bath-schools — Courtesy received at Anniversary Meetings — Deacon 
Gale, ! . • , 151 

CHAPTER xym. 

Sheffield — Leicester — Visit Scotland — Impressions of Edinburgh and 
Glasgow — Mr. Robert Kettle — FareweU to Great Britain, . . . 159 

CHAPTER XIX. 

Return Vovage — Reception on Board the Steamer *^City of Glasgow" — 
A Prosperous Voyage, and Safe Return Home, 172 



Vlll COXTEXTS. 

CHAPTER XX. 

From Providence to Philadelphia — Low State of the Shiloh Church— 
Sender a Report— A Revival — Baptism of my Daughter — Meeting of 
an Advisory Council — Strong Effort to Remove Church Debt — An 
Unworthy Church Member, . ....... 173 

CHAPTER XXI. 

Collections in Philadelphia — Personal Applications — Liberality of the 
Shiloh Church — Church Expenses — Mistaken Views, . . ISS 

CHAPTER XXn. 

Pecuniary Difficulties — Church Edifice in the Hands of the Sheriff — 
Remarks on the Disposition of Property, 197 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

Sickness and Death of my Daughter— Another Gracious Revival — Rev. 

J. M. Richards, . . . . . . . . . . .205 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

Shiloh Baptist Meeting-house — Repairs — Lack of Benevolence — List of 
Churches — Self-denialof the Ministry — Encouragements to Labor — 
Conclusion, . : 212 



IXTRODUCTIOX. 



In introducing tliis little volnme to the public. I am 
iiifluenced partly by a desire to aid its author in the good 
work to which he is devoting his energies, as the pastor of 
the Shiloh Baptist Church in Philadelphia — a work in- 
which his labors are arduous, his success ample, but his 
compensation small. If by any means this trial of author- 
ship should result in his pecuniary profit, by placing in the 
hands of his brethren a readable and usefid book in ex- 
change for what might aid him in the further prosecution 
of his labors, I should regard the enterprise as not only 
justifiable, but commendable. 

But I am also influenced by the behef that the work 

has merit. As the story of a Christian life, it enters into 

Christian experience ; and all such experience has value. 

As a narrative of the early relations existing between our 

colored brethren and the churches to which they belonged, 

it presents some interesting facts, which are highly suggest- 

fix) 



X INTRODUCTION. 

ive in their bearing upon these times. It has also some 
reminiscences of a still earlier date, lending additional tes- 
timony to the historical fact that some of the bravest and 
most steadfast of our soldiers in the time of onr Revolu- 
tionary struggle were men of African descent. These 
heroes of a sabler hue have not been honored as their 
memory deserves, or their children protected in the equal 
enjoyment of privileges which the fathers fought to secure. 
It is this thought mainly which induces me to ask a wel- 
come for this little volume, as a contribution to literature 
from one of that people whose wrongs are many, and 
whose privileges are few, J. W. S. 



AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY. 



CHAPTER I. 

BIRTH — PARENTAGE — CAPTURE OF JHY GRANDFATHER— 
TREAT]MENT ON BOARD OF HIS VESSEL— THE AMERI- 
CAN REVOLUTION— DEATH OF IVIY GRANDFATHER. 

I WAS born in the town of North Branford 
County of New Haven, State of Connecticut, on 
the 13th of October, 1812. My father's name 
was Euel Asher. He was born in the same 
place. His father was stolen from the Coast of 
Africa, when about four years of age, — ^brought 
to East Guilford, (now called Madison,) and sold to 
Linus Bishop, a ship carpenter, for $200. He 
gave him the name of Gad Asher. 

My mother, Jerusha Asher, is of the Indian 
extraction, and was born in Hartford. She is 
now about eighty years of age, and being, there- 
fore, unable to provide for herself, is entirely 



DEATH OF STY FATHER. 



dependent npon a portion of my slender means 
for lier support. My father died about seven 
years since^ aged nearly seventy. My grandfather 
had been dead about sixteen years. He fell asleep 
in Jesus, after having been a member of the Presby- 
terian Church for forty years. My eldest sister 
(Maria) early embraced a hope in Christ, and uni- 
ted with the Presbyterian Church in New Haven, 
tinder the Pastorate of Rev. S. S. Jocelyn, and for 
some eight or ten years lived a worthy member of 
that church. It has been my privilege seldom to 
meet with one more devoted and heavenly-minded. 

I have often listened with feelings of unmingled 
grief when my grandfather related the story of 
his capture, — stolen away as he was, from father, 
mother, brother and sister, never more to see 
them, aiid hurried on board of a slaver, to be 
consigned to perpetual bondage. 

His father cultivated a portion of land some 
distance from his dwelling, which he supposes 
produced rice ; although he cannot be certain, on 
account of his being so young. The mode of 
cultivation is not very peculiar. The seed being 
sown broadcast upon the land, it is then made the 
employment of small children to watch for a sea- 



MEN-STEALERS. 3 

son and prevent the depredations of the feathered 
tribe. 

This department of labor fell to a brother of 
rny grandfather, whom he supposes ^Yas some ten 
or twelve years of age^ and whom he was accustomed 
to take with 'him for company. One day, whilst 
thus engaged, he saw two white men coming out 
of the bush and making towards them, which 
aroused his suspicions. Therefore, he determined 
to take his little brother and flee for their lives. 
The white men immediately gave chase. My 
grandfather says that it was some time before his 
brother could make him sensible of his danger. 
He says that he took hold of him and turned him 
around, so that he might see his pursuers. Then 
he became so alarmed that he ran as fast and as 
long as he could, when at last failing in strength, 
he gave out. Then his brother took him up on 
his back, and continued to make all possible 
speed; but finding their pursuers were gaining 
upon them so fast, he was obliged to give him up 
and escape for his own life. 

The men-stealers soon reached my grandfather, 
gagged him, and took him up and put him on 
board the vessel, when they attempted to comfort 



4 CAPTURE OF MY GRANDFATHER. 

him by telling him that they were going to take 
him home. 

The brother made his escape to bear the melan- 
choly tidings to his heart-stricken parents^ that 
their darling little boy was stolen^ and they would 
see him no more. 

It was twilight when they brought him on 
board. He saw that, although a large number of 
men, women and children who had been also thus 
stolen, he did not recognize one of them. He 
waS; therefore, very lonely and distressed. They 
took great pains to quiet him, taking him into the 
cabin, where they were unusually attentive to 
him, lest they should lose him; and having no 
relative or companion on board, he was exempted 
from many of the horrors of the "middle passage." 

This happened about twenty-five or thirty 
years previous to the American Eevolution, when 
Bishop, who had purchased him, was drafted to 
go into the service of his country ; but preferring 
the comforts of home to the dangers and hard- 
ships of a campaign, he made an offer to his ser- 
vant Gad of his freedom, upon the condition that 
he would take his place and serve during the 
war ; to which he readily consented. 

He fought side by side with white men in two 



MY GRANDFATHER. 5 

or tliree important battles of the American Eevo- 
lution, including the memorable battle of Bunker 
Hill; where he lost his eyesight, "which he never 
regained. He died at the age of nearly one hun- 
dred years, nearly seventy years after the termina- 
tion of the Eevolutionary War. After returning 
to his master, he was required to pu.rchase himself 
for $200, his original cost, the Continental money 
which he had received for his services being re- 
fused. 

There were in the town where Gad Asher re- 
sided two other colored soldiers of the Eevolu- 
tion, who were frequently accustomed to talk over 
the motives which prompted them to ^'endure 
hardness.^^ They were the only men that I knew 
(and I was acquainted with nearly every man in 
the town) that fought in the terrible and never-to- 
be-forgotten battle for American Liberty. I was 
so accustomed to hear these men talk, until I al- 
most fancied to myself that I had more rights than 
any white man in the town. Such were the les- 
sons taught me by the old black soldiers of the 
American Eevolution. Thus, my first ideas of the 
right of the colored man to life, liberty and the 
pursuit of happiness, were received from those old 
veterans and champions for liberty. 



6 INDEPENDENCE. 

I confess that the result of their teachings gave 
my parents much trouble ; for whenever I was in- 
sulted, I would always resist it. Neither my 
father nor mother could persuade me that white 
boys were allowed to insult me because I was col- 
ored. I invariably felt justified in defending 
myself. 



CHAPTER II. 

RELIGIOUS CONCERN— :MY FATHER'S SUSPICIONS AND 
THREATS — CONTINUED DISTRESS— THOUGHTS OF APOS- 
TACT— FIRST BAPTIST PREACHING AND FIRST BAPTISM 
AT NORTH BRANFORD. 

So far back as I can remember, I have been 
the subject of religious impressions. "When not 
more than seven or eight years of age, my mind 
was frequently deeply affected. Thoughts on 
death and the judgment sometimes completely 
overwhelmed me, fearing as I did, that I might 
die in my sins. All this was occasioned princi- 
pally by reading the Holy Scriptures, which I 
commenced at a very early age. Before I was 
twelve years old, I remember to have read the 
entire New Testament four or five times and the 
Old Testament with the Apocrypha once and partly 
through again. More than this, the books of the 
Apocrypha being favorites with me, T read them 
the more frequently. 

When about twelve or thirteen years of age, I 
was hired out at the rate of six cents per day in 



8 OBEDIENCE. 

the spring and autumn, and from twelve to eighteen 
cents in the summer. I was expected to perform 
at least the half of a man's Avork. It was at this 
age that it pleased the Lord to call me from na- 
ture's darkness into His own maryellous light. It 
was in this wise : Upon a certain day of the month 
of March^ my father sent me on an errand, giving 
me special injunctions to hasten back. Hitherto 
I had been exceedingly disobedient and dilatory, 
being easily detained by the many objects which 
readily attracted my attention. On this occasion, 
however, I started from home with a full determi- 
nation to obey my father and follow his instruc- 
tions — to be blind to all I might see and deaf to 
all I might hear. Having proceeded about mid- 
way, I bethought me of the residence near at hand 
of an intimate friend, who had become the subject 
of a late revival of religion, but whom I had not 
seen since his conversion. It was not, however, 
on this account that I desired to see him. I had 
forgotten that he was a changed man. Otherwise, 
nothing would have induced me to have gone near 
him, feeling as I did at the time, actually afraid of 
professing Christians, lest they should address me 
on the subject of religion. Conversation on this 
subject always made me feel unhappy, as I fully 



FIRST IMPRESSIONS. 



realized that I was a sinner, living without God 
and without hope. 

The morning was delightful. Every piece of 
nature appeared to wear a cheerful aspect. My 
own heart was merry until I looked upon my 
friend, when the thought of his conversion^ to- 
gether with observing a change in his personal 
appearance, confused and perplexed me so much, 
that I was literally speechless. It appeared to me 
as if his face shone with an unnatural brightness. 
When, however, he addressed me, all sunshine 
seemed to depart. His very first words pierced 
my heart, convicting me of my disobedience to my 
parents and showing me my utter sinfulness before 
God. 

I was unhappy, feeling myself to be a con- 
demned sinner in the sight of God. As he inter- 
rogated me concerning my confusion, I was un- 
willingly forced to confess that I was unwell ; when 
he took occasion to speak to me of the mercy of 
God, the love of the Lord Jesus Christ in dying 
for sinners, and my duty to repent of my sins. 
Such were his words and so earnestly were they 
spoken, that they went as arrows to my soul, and 
made me as a wounded bird. 

Leaving mv friend and walking onwards, I re- 



10 ^ DISTRESS OF MIND. 

solved to amend mj ">vayS; and no more to disobey 
my parents. I therefore hastened my pace and 
soon arrived at home again, thereby pleasing my 
father. Observing that I was sad at heart, he 
spoke kindly to me, and for the remainder of the 
day exacted very little from me. 

Night came; but, oh, what a night! To me it 
was one of densest darkness. I could obtain no 
sleep to my eyes nor slumber to my eyelids. I 
was afraid to sleep, feeling that such a sinner as I 
was, deserved to be turned into hell. I could not 
as yet see any way of escape, as I remembered 
the Scripture : ^^ The soul that sinneth, it shall 
die." I felt, too, that my condemnation was just, 
so that I could not hope to be forgiven. 

The morning came, — then noon-day ; but as yet 
no relief. Dark as night was, I wished for its re- 
turn, as it appeared to me as if every body re- 
garded me as I viewed myself. 

My father, notwithstanding his skepticism about 
religious matters, very soon appeared to under- 
stand or suspect the cause of my trouble, and de- 
clared himself to be determined to relieve me from 
what he termed my gloomy feelings. He inquired 
of me if I was '^ serious." To which making no 
reply, he bade me go to work, giving me a double 



CON^'ICnON. 11 

task, wliich lie insisted should be performed before 
tlie sun went down, and at the same time threat- 
ening me, that should he see me troubling myself 
any more on the subject of religion, he would 
punish me very severely. 

Distressed in my mind, I went to my work, but 
continued many days thereafter in trouble, as I 
could not understand how God could be just, and 
yet the Justifier of the ungodly. At length I 
was brouo^ht to see the blood of Christ cleanseth 

o 

from all sin, and to seek forgiveness through His 
merits. I soon saw in Christ (a miserable con- 
demned sinner though I felt myself to be,) all that 
I needed ; and being set before me in the Scrip- 
tures as suffering and dying for me, and then 
rising again for my justification. He seemed to me 
as '^the chiefest among ten thousand and alto- 
gether lovely.'' 

It then seemed to me as if my sins were really 
many more and worse than they had been, but I felt 
as though there were more than sufficient in Jesus to 
atone for them all. Then I experienced an inward 
joy, to which I had hitherto been a stranger. I felt 
assured of my part in the Saviour, and trust,- that 
to the latest day of my life, to hope for acceptance 



12 CONVERSION. 

v/itli God only tTirougli the merits of a crucified Sa- 
viour. 

During tlie wliole of tliis time I do not remem- 
ber to have heard a sermon, attended a prayer- 
meeting, or engaged in any religious conversation, 
until it pleased the Lord, by His Holy Spirit, to 
bring me to trust in His dear Son alone for salva- 
tion, for Tvhich I praise His holy name. That day 
I not only felt joy, comfort and peace, but I also 
experienced an unusual degree of strength. My 
task was soon performed, and I retired to meditate 
upon the goodness of God and thank Him for 
what He had done for my poor soul. 

I continued in this way for some length of time ; 
but having no one to guide and instruct me, I was 
soon led away by the temptations which sur- 
rounded me on every hand ; and, although I made 
no pretentions to religion, I ever after revered 
and respected those who loved the Saviour, 
yet I seldom, if ever, spoke to any one on the 
subject. At length I began to think it was all a 
delusion, and endeavored to give it up and live in 
and enjoy the world. I thought that I was too young 
to give my attention to the consideration of the sub- 
ject of religion. Although I always delighted to visit 
the house of the Lord and loved the place where 



BAPTISM AT ERANFORD. 13 

His honor dwelleth, sucli was seldom my privi- 
lege. 

About tliis time; there came to iSTorth Branford 
a Baptist minister^ the first one that I ever heard 
of since John the Baptist. I did not know that 
such people upon the face of the earth, holding the 
views, doctrines, principles and practices as the 
Baptist denomination, existed. He seemed as 
though he would "turn the place upside-down," 
— not because of his fame as a preacher, but for 
the reason that he declared that baptism could 
only be rightly performed by immersion. He 
preached in a small school-house, to which the 
people flocked from all quarters to hear him. The 
Lord worked with him, and a number of the most 
wicked and profligate young men in the town were 
converted. One entire family, which consisted, I 
think, of eight members, were announced to put 
on the Lord Jesus Christ by being immersed in 
the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 
This was to take place on the Sabbath in the 
southern part of the town, known as Cedar Pond. 
As the time drew near, the news extended far and 
wide, and extensive preparations were made in 
every direction to be present on the occasion. 
Those who had horses, used them; whilst those 



14 BAPTISM. 

wlio had none, travelled on foot; from miles in all 
directions, to witness the scene. Among others, 
my father and mother went ; but, to my great dis- 
appointment, (and it was one of the greatest I had 
ever experienced,) I was not allowed to witness 
the baptism. 

The hour for tbe administration of the ordi- 
nance arrived, and every available place was said to 
be occupied. The trees, which, were in abundance 
on the banks, were covered with anxious specta- 
tors, and the man of God administered the ancient 
rite, and those happy souls were buried with 
Christ in baptism. This baptism was the theme 
of conversation for weeks in every house and in 
every place of resort. The mode, its subjects, and 
its propriety were discussed pro and con; but, as 
a general thing, did not meet with, favor. 

During the administration of the ordinance the 
hymn was sung which contains the lines — 

^' Oh, how happy are they vfho their Saviour obey, 
And have laid up their treasure above ! ' ' 

The hymn continued to be sung in almost every 
place of business for some time. When T first 
heard it, I became convinced, from all that I had 
heard of the baptism and its surrounding circum- 



THOUGHTS ON BAPTISM. 15 

stances, that it must be precisely similar to tliose 
as recorded by Matthew. and the other evangelists 
respecting the baptisms of John and Jesus. And 
never, from that day until this, have I seen any 
reason to alter my mind respecting believers' 
baptism. 

After this event, I formed a strong desire to be- 
come a Baptist ; but this was the last I knew of 
them for about seven years ; never, even, in the 
meantime listening to any one sermon declaring 
the particular views of the denomination. From 
that day I loved them, and thought that if it was 
the Lord's will, I should be delighted to give my- 
self to the preaching of the word of reconcilia- 
tion. How often did I feel this when I even 
despaired of becoming a member of a Baptist 
church ! 



CHAPTER III. 

I BECOME NEGLIGENT OF RELIGION — ENGAGE ]MY SER- 
VICES TO MR. ELLSWORTH — ALARMING SICKNESS — 
ATTENTIONS OF MRS. ELLSWORTH — RECOVERY — MY 
father's sickness and RECOVERY — I AM AGAIN 

ILL — MR. Ellsworth's misfortune — my ^lirriage, 

AND LOSS OF CHILD. 

I CONTINUED to work for my fattier, who liired 
me out for one dollar per week. Being able to 
perform almost as much labor as a man^ I was 
generally fully occupied during the first three 
seasons of the year. At lengthy being tired of 
working for so small a sum, I determined to leave 
home and seek occupation with better pay. 

I had now arrived at the age of sixteen, and 

had become, in great measure, indifferent and 

negligent about the concerns of my soul. I began 

to look upon the past as a delusion, and concluded 

that I had been deceived. My opportunities to 

attend the means of grace had been much more 

frequent, but I embraced them mostly without 

comfort or profit. As I had never mentioned the 

subject to any one I now resolved that I would 
16 



NEW HOME. 17 

not, lest it shoiild all prove a deception, but de- 
termined to live a strictly moral life, thus striving 
to inculcate the belief that it was all-sufBicient 
unto salvation. 

About this time I went to Hartford, where a 
cousin who resided there had obtained for me a 
situation with Henry L. Ellsworth, Esq., for ten 
dollars per month. I commenced for one month 
on trial, with the mutual agreement, that should 
he, by the expiration of the term, be dissatisfied 
with me, he should forward me home. On the 
other hand, should I be displeased with the place, 
I should be at liberty to leave at my option. 

Mrs. Ellsworth was an enterpt-ising and kind- 
hearted w^oman, who desired to see every thing 
move aright in her presence. It was made my 
duty to pound the clothes, preparatory to washing, 
every Sabbath night, — a duty to which I had not 
been accustomed, and for which I had not yet 
formed a liking, especially when I had to perform 
this duty on the evening of the Sabbath. As they 
kept a carriage, I had also to take care of three 
horses, and as they almost invariably rode out 
after the afternoon meetings, I again objected. 
These things led me to conclude that I should not 
do more than complete my month with them, as I 



18 A CHANGE. 

was not willing to labor more than six days in tlie 
week; much less on the Sabbath^ excepting in cases 
of mercy or necessity. I therefore commenced to 
make arrangements to leave ; to which they ob- 
jected; showing their unwillingness by offering to 
increase my wages. That, however, did not shake 
my determination. Madam, at length, pressed me 
for my objections. I gave them by telling her 
that I believed the holy Sabbath to be a day 
appointed for rest, and not for labor, and I could 
not, therefore, do what they desired to be performed 
on that day. Neither did I desire to interfere with 
their arrangements, and considered, therefore, that 
it would be muct better for us to separate than to 
live together in disagreement. Mrs. Ellsworth 
then inquired if I should be willing to remain. To 
which I replied, that I was willing to work for 
any person at any time, excepting on the Sabbath. 
As she agreed that it should be discontinued, I 
engaged to remain, and did remain for four years, 
during which time I found it a home to all intents 
and purposes. 

In the course of about two years from entering 
upon this engagement, I was seized with typhoid 
fever, which in the course of a few days assumed 
so virulent a form, that my kind friends, and even 



ALARmNG SICKNESS. 19 

physicians, declared tliat I could not survive. 
During all my serious sickness, Mrs. Ellsworth 
was unwearied in her attentions to me, both by 
night and by day, often watching with me and 
administering to my wants for successive nights 
with all the solicitude that she could have mani- 
fested for her own son. She was often assisted by 
her sister-in-law, Mrs. Thomas S. Williams, wife 
of the Chief Justice of the State of Connecticut. 
Those two ladies, angels of mercy and sisters of 
charity, have both long since gone to their rest, 
and to receive the reward of Him who has de- 
clared that a cup of cold water given to a disciple 
should not pass unrewarded. Peace to their 
ashes ! And sweet to me is the remembrance of 
the names of Mrs. Nancy Goodrich Ellsworth and 
Mrs. Delia Williams. 

About this time I was sent for to return home, 
my father being apparently lying at the point of 
death. Neither of us knew about the illness of 
the other until we were both convalescent. After 
the fever turned, which continued about three 
weeks, I was made aware of my perilous condi- 
tion, and felt that, indeed, there had been but a 
step between me and death. 

For three or four weeks I seemed to recover 



20 co:mplaint of the liver. 

most rapidly, when I was suddenly attacked with, 
an affection of the liver, which again brought me 
almost to the border of the grave, and for two 
long months I was unable to perform any kind 
of labor. My pain was so intense, and loss of 
flesh so rapid, that I could see nothing before 
me but almost immediate death. My prospects 
were blighted, and all my earthly hopes and 
expectations seemed to be destroyed. My ambi- 
tion was also gone, and my general spirits so low, 
that I almost decided not to take any more medi- 
cine, especially as it was the expressed opinion of 
my physician that it would be useless. 

During this state of my mind and body, the 
Eev. Dr. Taylor, of New Haven, came to visit Mr. 
Ellsworth. When he saw me, he pitied me. Be- 
ing told that I was given up by my physician, he 
conversed with me very kindly concerning my 
spiritual condition. Afterwards, before leaving, 
he recommended to my use " Hadlock's Vegetable 
Powder." As I had determined to use no more 
means, I entertained no faith even in doctors' pre- 
scriptions. Being ajiprehensive that I would not 
procure the medicine, the Doctor himself obtained 
it, and sent it with kind regards and an earnest 
request that I would try it. He also sent mo 



RECOVERY. 21 

special directions for its use. Altliough. with 
great reluctance, I acceded to liis request. I very 
soon, by God's blessing, became relieved ; and be- 
fore I had taken one and a lialf bottles, I was 
nearly freed from pain. Having a good opportu- 
nity to go to Saratoga and use the waters freely, I 
departed almost immediately, and found, in the 
course of two months' time, that I had so far re- 
covered as to be able to return to my labor. I 
then returned to my situation, which I had not 
given up, nor meanwhile had my wages stopped. 

About this time Mr. Ellsworth failed, when I left 
and boarded for a short time. I had for several 
months been engaged to a lady, and we were now 
immediately married and commenced housekeep- 
ing. Our first child lived to be only nine months 
old, when the Lord was pleased to take her to 
Himself. At this time, we were both without the 
consolations of the gospel, and regarded this as a 
severe chastisement. Feeling that we had lost our 
best treasure, and that, in fact, we had lost our all, 
we determined to break up housekeeping and ob- 
tain a situation together, where we could forget our 
sorrow, and at the same time support ourselves. 
No long time elapsed before just such an oppor- 
tunity offered as we had desired. 



CHAPTEE IV. 

ENGAGEjMENT with ]MIl. WILLIAMS— SICKNESS OF MY WIFE 
— MY BAPTISM — BIRTH AND DEATH OF A CHILD — VIEWS 
OF A CALL TO THE MINISTRY — PROVIDENTIAL MK\NS 
PROVIDED TO PREPARE FOR THE WORK THEREOF. 

The Hon. Chief Justice Williams^ a brother- 
in-law of the gentleman with whom I had first 
livedo desired me and my wife to go and live with 
him^ offering me the privilege of working for him 
or not; according to my choice. We accepted the 
engagement. My wife soon after became afflicted 
with physical infirmities of a threatening charac- 
ter, and from which she has never Recovered. 
The result has been, to deprive her of the use of 
her left knee and right arm. 

About this timC; the Lord, in His mercy, began 
again to manifest Himself to my poor soul. I 
had not been wholly unmindful of His goodness, 
and was constantly in attendance at the Talcott 
Street Sabbath-school, of which Mr. Normand 
Smith was long the Superintendent.'^ During my 
attendance at this school, there were several con- 

^ Memoir of Normand Smith. 
22 



ANXIETY OF FRIENDS. 23 

versions ; thinking upon this subject^ I began to 
believe that I must surely be a cast-away, and 
therefore once more became troubled about my 
condition. The friends, also, became quite anxious, 
and reminded me that I had passed through many 
revivals of religion without giving my heart 
•wholly to Grod. For a while, I was again deeply 
anxious, almost realizing that should I suffer 
present opportunities to pass unheeded, I must at 
last take up the woeful lamentation of the lost 
soul, and say, '^ The harvest is passed, the summer 
is ended, and I am not saved." 

Notwithstanding all this, however, I again be- 
came quite careless and indifferent, even to that 
extent that I absented myself from the Sabbath- 
school in the morning, which time I spent in sleep. 
Upon one occasion, I had pursued my now usual 
practice, yet went to the church in the afternoon, 
but only to sit down again aud go to sleep. Hymns 
were sung, a prayer was offered, and the Scriptures 
read, but as yet I was undisturbed. At length 
the minister arose and announced as his text the 
words, ^'Eedeeming the time." (Eph. v. 16.) The 
very reading of these words brought me to my 
feet, and my feelings were so stirred that I was 
inclined to leave the house, never again to return. 



24 TALCOTT STREET MEETING-HOUSE. 

It seemed to me that I was so much and so con- 
tinually troubled about tlie subject of religion, 
tliat I had no peace of mind, and thought it would 
be better for me to forsake all thoughts of it for- 
ever. Whilst thus reasoning, however, something 
appeared to say to me, that were I unmindful and 
heedless of this admonition, it would be the last. 
Fully bewildered by this mysterious voice within, 
I determined to listen attentively to the Word 
from the mouth of His servant. I then heard a 
sermon — the first for a long time — and I trust a 
profitable one, which I hope never to forget. 

This occurred in the Talcott Street Meeting- 
house, which, although originated and completed 
chiefly through the influence and by the money of 
the Baptists, at the time referred to was a ^' union 
church." It was one of the places where members 
of all denominations sometimes worshipped, some- 
times quarrelled. When there was nothing else 
to contend about, the Baptists were accused of 
believing that they were better than other Chris- 
tians, and none but themselves would ever reach 
heaven. Being tired of these unprofitable har- 
angues, and also a believer in the Baptist doctrine, 
especially in the ordinance of baptism, and be- 
lieved that immersion, and immersion of believers 



MY BAPTISM. 25 

only, was Scriptural baptism, I left, and attended 
the First Baptist Churcli. Talcott Street Meeting- 
house afterwards went into the possession of the 
Presbyterians. 

After some time spent in deliberation and 
prayer, I was baptized in the river by the Eev. 
Gustavus F. Davis, D. D., and united with the 
First Baptist Church. Then all things seemed well. 
I was deeply interested in all the public exer- 
cises — more particularly, perhaps, in the Prayer 
and Conference Meetings, from which I derived 
great benefit, and in which I was frequently 
invited by the pastor to take a part. 

Owing to the state of my wife's health, I found 

it necessary to take board for her. In a short 

time after, she presented me with a fine son, 

who lived to be five months of age, and was so 

early taken away from us. He died suddenly, 

and I arrived only in time for him to die in my 

arms. Great as the loss appeared to be at this 

time, I felt perfectly resigned to the will of God, 

and could with Christian resignation say, '' The 

Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away ; blessed 

be the name of the Lord !" For the first time, I 

felt what it was to be sustained in the day of trial, 

and comforted by the grace of God. 
2b 



26 YIEWS OF A CALL TO PREACH. 

After having united with the chqjch, I felt a 
strong desire to be useful to my fellow-men in 
some waj; and was deeply impressed with a desire 
to preach the Gospel ; but reflecting upon my 
ignorance, the few opportunities of improvement 
within my reach, and my ideas touching the 
general duties of a preacher of Christ, I en- 
deavored to banish the idea from my mind, with- 
out mentioning it to any one. 

Since, however, my mind has undergone a very 
considerable change respecting the requisite quali- 
fications for the Grospel ministry. I may, perhaps, 
as well state them here as elsewhere : 

My views of ^^a call to the Gospel ministry," so 
far, at least, as my knowledge is concerned, may 
be very simply stated : 

First: I believe that the candidate must be 
wholly regenerated by the Holy Spirit. 

Second: That he must be called of God, and 
possessed of an irrepressible desire for the work, 
not for any pecuniary or social advantage which 
may accrue, but for the work's sake, that souls 
may be converted, the church edified, and the 
Lord Jesus glorified. 

TJiird: That he must be willing to perform any 
act of self-denial in order to accomplish it, feeling 



CALL TO THE MINISTRY. 27 

that a present and eternal woe rests upon him if 
he preaches not the Gospel. 

Fourth : That he make himself acquainted with 
the Word of God. It is this that he must study 
to prove himself to be a workman that needeth 
not to be ashamed, that when going forth and 
bearing precious seed he may return rejoicing. 

Fifth : That he should possess an unquenchable 
love for the souls of sinners, that he may be will- 
ing to do all things and bear all things, looking 
for his reward in the promise that ^' they that turn 
many to righteousness shall shine as the stars in 
the firmament for ever and ever." 

I cannot but feel that he who entertains such 
views and is exercised by such feelings as de- 
scribed above is called of God as was Aaron. 

Having thus briefly given my views of what I 
consider to be the main points involved in a call 
to the ministry, I will now narrate the principal 
facts touching my entrance upon the sacred calling. 

On consultation with my beloved pastor, he 
advised me to be constant in my attendance on 
the means of grace, and exercise my gift on every 
fitting opportunity. Being, however, naturally 
difl&dent, and knowing that there were but three 
colored male members of a church whose whole 



28 CONVERSATION WITH THE DEACON. 

membership was about four hundred, including 
nearly forty colored sisters, I generally refrained 
from taking any part in the public exercises unless 
called upon, notwithstanding that I knew myself 
to be the recipient of their Christian affection and 
regard, and would most willingly have been heard 
by them. Their fraternal feelings were manifested 
in many ways ; among others, by always appoint- 
ing me on committees of discipline, and generally 
as chairman when any difficulty occurred with 
any of my own color. 

I was at this time residing with the Hon. T. S. 
"Williams, as his servant. Upon one pleasant 
morning, when proceeding to my day's labor, I 
was very unexpectedly thrown into the company 
of Deacon Jeremiah Brown, one of the deacons of 
the church, who, in the course of conversation, 
greatly to my surprise, conversed with me re- 
specting my duty to preach the Gospel, stating, 
also, that such Avas the opinion of the brethren 
generally. Seeing obstacles in the way, I could 
not but nam.e them. I reminded him of my lack 
of education, without which I thought no minis- 
ter was fit to teach. I next advanced as an 
objection the fact that my wife was an invalid, 
and therefore entirely dependent upon me for 



CONVERSATION WITH THE DEACON. 29 

support; quoting at the same time the Scripture 
which saith that '' he who pro^ddeth not for his 
own house has denied the faith, and is worse than 
an infidel." 

I stated my views fully and freely^ maintaining 
that under such circumstances that however much 
I might desire the work of the ministry^ I could 
not enter upon it until these formidable obstacles 
were removed, when I would give myself wholly 
to the Lord; forgetting that I had already pro- 
fessed to do SO; when I had reason to believe that 
He by His grace had made me a new creature in 
Christ Jesus. 

The good deacon remarked; in return; that he 
considered that the requisite qualifications to 
preach Christ and Him crucified did not wholly 
depend upon the amount of scholastic knowledge 
the individual might possesS; desirable though it 
was. The main point in his judgment was that 
there should be realized a special call from God, 
which, he insisted upoU; would be a surety of suc- 
cess. After stating that he would mention the 
interview to the brethren of the church; that he 
might ascertain their views and purposes more 
definitely; he inquired as to the leng^th of time and 
amount of expense w^hich I supposed to be re- 



30 OFFER TO GO INTO THE COUNTRY. 

quired to prepare me for the work. My reply 
waS; tliat perhaps two years and three hundred 
dollars might, under all the circumstances^ be suf- 
ficient. Then, after promising him that if the 
means could be obtained I would sincerely devote 
myself to the work, we parted. 

Not long after this interview, I was favored 
with a call from a gentleman who came to make 
me a proposition to go into the country and take 
charge of a farm — an offer which I immediately 
declined on the ground of the ill health of my 
wife, which I considered to incapacitate her from 
superintending that department which would re- 
quire her special attention. My visitor, however, 
prevailed upon me to withhold a final decision 
and consider the matter more fully, on the plea 
that my wife's health, whilst her labor would not 
be required, would be greatly improved, and that 
my own pecuniary advantage would be materially 
advanced. We thereupon parted, leaving the 
matter unsettled for a few days. 

Upon consultation with my wife, I was happily 
surprised to find her not only willing, but even 
anxious, that I should accept the proffered engage- 
ment, partly because of her confidence in the 
gentleman who had made the proposal, as ho was 



REMOVAL TO THE COUNTRY. 31 

a surgeon. I could not but regard lier willing- 
ness as the result of the interposition of Pro- 
videncC; the more especially as I had concealed 
from my wife the main reason which had influ- 
enced me in accepting the proposition. 

But a few days elapsed, and the gentleman 
again called upon me, according to appointment, 
when I made a written agreement with him on 
advantageous terms for one year^ believing that 
at its expiration I should be enabled to commence 
my studies. Arrangements being made^ our 
removal was soon effected. 

My wife's health now very much improved, 
although she never recovered wholly the use of 
her limbs. About three months after our entrance 
upon our new and pleasant home, my employer, 
desiring to make some alterations on his premises 
that he might extend his operations, proposed, as 
his wish, that I should extend my term of service 
from one to five years. To this I objected. He 
then became dissatisfied and expressed a desire 
that the agreement should be cancelled, desiring 
me to name the conditions upon which I would 
give up the bargain. So, I then made a proposal 
with a view to my preparation for the ministry. 
He accepted my proposition, upon condition that I 



32 THE GOODNESS OF GOD. 

was to continue until tlie crops were gathered. 
Thus the Lord enabled me, in less than one year, 
to obtain all the funds necessary for my education 
and to support my family. 

The Lord had been very good to me. He had 
heard my prayer and granted my request. Here 
I can see an illustration of that Scripture which 
says, '^In the Lord's hands are the hearts of all 
men, and He can turn them as the rivers of water 
are turned," 



CHAPTER Y. 

GOING INTO BUSINESS — FAILURE — RETURN TO HARTFORD 
— ^DISTRESS OF MIND — A CHURCH DIFFICULTY — 3rU- 
TUAL CONFERENCE — DEFENCE OF THE RIGHT — SET- 
TLEMENT OF THE DIFFICULTY. 

Often" do I blame myself^ and shall do nnto 
my dying day, tliat I did not receive a good edu- 
cation. At the time of which I am about to 
speak, I fell into a sore temptation. It presented 
itself to me in this form. I believed that it was 
by my business tact and skill, that I had been 
enabled to accomplish what is related in the last 
chapter. It was very easy, therefore, for me not 
only to forget my promise to my Saviour, and the 
mysterious way in which He had led me, but, also, 
my conversation with my brother, the deacon. 
When I reflect upon it, I cannot but think it now 
as impossible — certainly, not less than strange. 

I then began to reason in this way: I com- 
menced with nothing, and now I have something 
wherewith to start. I have been blessed beyond 
my most sanguine expectations. Surely, by close 

attention to business, I cannot fail to succeed. I 
2* 33 



3-4 GOING INTO BUSINESS. 

was then so elated with the mere idea of makino^ 
money, that it seemed like the opening of a new 
era in the history of my life. 

T immediately made arrangements to go into 
business with a mannfacturino; concern. My duty 
was to carry their wares into the city, and brino- 
back, in return, coal and steel, at a giyen price per 
cwt., thus insuring employment for eyery day in 
the year. I fm-nished two of the finest teams in 
town and commenced my work; and when I 
invested my capital, I could not see, nor can I 
now see, the possibility of my failing, unless I was 
under God's disapprobation. 

Alas! alas! what is man when left to himself! 
^'He may appoint, but God disappoints.'' For six 
months, every thing went wrong with me. until I 
found myself, pecuniarily, much in about thesanie 
condition at the expiration of that time as at the 
beginning. Yet in my blindness and ignorance, I 
could not understand it. I was so blind, as well 
as ignorant, that I did not see that I had provoked 
the Lord to anger, and that He had, therefore, for- 
saken me. I still attended to my religious duties, 
both privately and publicly, but I did not find 
happiness and comfort in them as formerly, nor 
did I receive much benefit. 



RETURN TO THE CTTY. 3d 

For two years, I did not discover the cause of 
my disappointment. About this time, I returned 
to the city. I found that during my absence, my 
pastor had deceased, and that Rev. Henry Jackson 
was his successor, whom I highly esteemed ; but^ 
having little acquaintance with him, I could not 
approach him with that degree of confidence that I 
could the pastor who baptized me. He continued 
with the church only about one year after my 
return : but OTs-ing to the peculiar state of my mind, 
I did not form so stronG^ an attachment to him as 
I should have done, or as he was worthy of re- 
ceiving from me. 

The year passed, during which I continued my 
attendance upon the means of grace, for I still 
loved the assembly of God's people and the place 
where His honor dwelleth. Yet I was driven 
almost to despair. That year I shall never forget. 

During the same year, my wife presented me 
with another daughter, thus adding to my httle 
household one to supply the place of the dear 
children we had buried with so much grief. 

Some time after my return to the city, a singu- 
lar and novel circumstance occurred. There were 
situated at that time, in the gallery of the meeting- 
house, two large pews, capable of holding some 



36 NEGHO TEW. 

twenty persons. The pewS; situated at the corner 
of the • galleries, were separated from the other 
seats by partitions, about three feet high, between 
the minister and his colored hearers, which con- 
cealed them mainly from the view of the congre- 
gation and minister. They contained but two or 
three choice seats, one of which it was my privi- 
lege frequently to occupy. Having lost this, upon 
a certain afternoon, the only available seat in the 
pew was one which would place my back to the 
preacher, and my head but a little higher than 
the top of the pew. I could not but feel indig- 
nant at the idea of sitting thus, when there was 
an abundance of unoccupied seats in other parts 
of the galleries. This one subject engrossed my 
mind during the services, and I determined never 
to sit in that seat again — not even to prevent my 
exclusion from the church. I was grieved to 
leave the temple, remembering my baptism and 
covenant, the many delightful prayer-meetings 
which I had attended, and instructive sermons to 
which I had listened. It was to me a solemn step 
to take, but there seemed to be a principle involved 
which I had no right to surrender. 

I then returned to the Union Church in Talcott 
Street, where the Lord had been pleased in a 



INQUIRIES RESPECTING MY ABSENCE. 37 

great degree to bless my poor soul. I was received 
with mucli kindness and reminded of certain pre- 
dictions that had been uttered^ which some of 
the brethren thought were now verily fulJ&Ued. I 
resolved that hereafter I would worship with the 
brethren of this place. 

Inquiries being made after me^ from time to 
time, by the brethren of the First Church, it was 
not long ere I was visited by the deacons to ascer- 
tain the cause of my protracted absence. We 
conversed with perfect freedom. I maintained my 
my own cause to the best of my ability, assuring 
them, in addition, that I left mainly to avoid a 
collision with the church. They tried to convince 
me of what they deemed to be an error, but all to 
no purpose. 

The deacons reported the whole matter to the 
church, when a very spirited discussion ensued, 
which resulted in a vote that the colored members 
should occupy the vacant seats in the gallery at 
their pleasure. 

A committee, appointed to state to me the action 
of the church, informed me that the pews erected 
for colored persons were condemned, as causing 
distinction and dissatisfaction among the members 
of the body of Christ, and furthermore that it 



38 ATTEMPT TO SELL THE PEWS. 

was tlieir intention to propose the construction of 
otlier pews in tlieir stead. I replied that I was 
pleased with their action^ and in their proposal to 
remove those (to me) objectionable seats. But 
why reconstruct them^ w^hilst so many vacant pews 
remain in the church, "unless you wish to colonize 
the colored people ? 

Notwithstanding the many and strong objections 
nrged, the new seats were erected. They were 
similar to all others in the gallery, excepting in 
size. Notice was given that on a certain day 
they would be let to the colored members, who 
were respectfully invited to be present. 

The time of sale came, yet but one colored 
woman was present, who, having chosen her pew, 
expressed her belief that I was the cause of the 
absence of the colored members. 

Another day was fixed, but with little better 
success. I was, indeed, considered to be the obsta- 
cle in the way of their rental. The pews having 
cost about one hundred dollars, very much anxiety 
was expressed by many that the church should be 
indemnified. Furthermore, if rented at all, they 
must bo rented to colored people. 

This new phase of the question, with the whole 
trouble, soon again occupied the attention of the 



COMMITTEE. 39 

cliurcli, when it was deemed expedient to appoint 
a committee, to consist of tlie pastor, Eev. Henry 
Jackson, Eev. Gurdon Eobins, and deacons Jo- 
seph B. Gilbert, Jeremiah. Brown, and Aaron 
Clapp. The committee were appointed to meet 
the colored members of the church at one of the 
sister's houses. 

The parties being present on the day and hour 
of appointment, the pastor called upon me to open 
the meeting with prayer. He afterwards stated 
the object which had brought us together, the 
great interest which he felt in the colored portion 
of his church, and expressed his anxiety that the 
whole matter should soon be brought to an ami- 
cable conclusion. The pastor then commenced 
questioning the members respecting their objec- 
tions to the seats which had been provided for 
them by the church, and why they had not com- 
plied with the wish of the church. Most of them 
answered that they had no objection, but, on the 
other hand, were much pleased with them. Some 
of them even expressed their intention to rent them. 

Xo one, but God alone, knows, or ever will 
know, the feelings of my heart that day. I was 
disappointed in my brethren and sisters. They 
had made numerous complaints to me, and de- 



40 DEFENCE OF THE RIGHT. 

clared their intention to stand by me to the last. 
'*0!" I thought, ^'is this your kindness to your 
friend?" Then I saw what oppression had done 
to break the spirits of the colored people, and how 
soon they yield to, rather than contend against, 
those whom they regard as their superiors. 

'^Well/' I thought, ^'I am in bad company, and 
surely I must pay dearly for it. But, neverthe- 
theless, the cause is a righteous one.'' I was 
strengthened as I never was before. It came my 
turn to speak for myself, and I truly felt happy 
that it was so. Not that I expected to accomplish 
any thing more than to unburden my feelings, for 
I was pressed like a cart beneath a heavy load. 
It was the first time that I had ever been called 
upon to stand up in the defence of the rights of 
my brethren. I endeavored to show that we were 
not the aggressors in this movement. "We had 
only asked what the church was willing volunta- 
rily to grant; and, what was more, all that we 
needed; the other was gratuitous and uncalled 
for ; and for them to draw a line of demarcation 
between white and colored members of the same 
family, and then ask us to pay for this colonization 
in the house of God, seemed to me to be unreason- 
able and unchristian. We would have been wilh 



SETrLESlENT OF THE DIFIICULTY. 41 

ing, without any expense; to have paid for our 
sittings in the gallery; and, if they had not been 
disposed to give both sides^ we would have taken 
one side, which we could nearly fill. But for one, 
I was not prepared to have any thing to do with 
this arrangement, and solemnly dechned paying 
even one cent. If my brethren and sisters would 
take my advice, they would never enter into such 
an agreement, for I believed the scheme originated 
in the prejudice of one portion of the church 
against the other, and I should sin against God if 
I were to give it my sanction. My address on 
this subject was continued about half an hour, 
and I sat down relieved and refreshed. No one 
attempted to reply, but a resolution was offered by 
one of the committee to drop the whole subject, 
and allow the colored persons to sit where they 
pleased in the galleries. This was agreed to by 
the committee, and, at a subsequent meeting of 
the church, adopted, and thus ended this painful 
and unpleasant diflSculty, and peace and harmony 
were restored. 

It is proper I should say, in closing the account 
of the above incident, that my objection to sitting 
in the colored pew arose not more from an instinct- 
ive sense of the degradation thus unjustly put 
b2 



42 SEPARATE WORSIIIP CONTEMPLATEI). 

upon me by ' the clmrcli, tlian from a religious 
conviction that I ought to bear my testimony 
against such wrong towards my race. The second 
chapter of St. James had clearly taught me that 
such distinction in the house of God was contrary 
to the spirit of Christianity. I knew that an evil 
which Scripture rebuked, I might myself protest 
against. 

I was still in a state of comparative darkness, 
and seemed to enjoy but little of Grod's presence. 
About this time, a strong desire manifested itself 
on the part of the colored brethren and sisters to 
worship elsewhere, as a separate organization, 
such being considered as expedient for their best 
interests, notwithstanding all the kindness which 
they had received from the members of the First 
Church. 



CHAPTEE YI. 

RESIGNATION OF KEY. HENRY JACKSON — C0:MMENCE3IENT 
OF SEPARATE MEETINGS — OUR EMBARRASS:MENT UN- 
DER THE LOSS OF A PREACHER— ORDINATION OF REY. 
J. S. K\TON. 

About this time^ our pastor resigned His charge 
of the church. This seeraed to help forward the 
desire of the colored brethren and sisters to have 
the separate meeting. The matter was talked OYcr 
with some of the members of the church, and it 
was thought desirable to establish a colored Bap- 
tist church in the city. It was also belicYcd that 
many of the colored people would attend, who 
could not be induced to go to the white church. 
This view of the subject gained favor with the breth- 
ren, who agreed that we might make the attempt 
upon the following conditions: 1st. That we could 
secure the labors of some one to preach for us for 
a reasonable compensation ; and 2d. That we were 
to attend the communion regularly. About this 
time, there was a good brother in the Second 

Baptist Church who had just been licensed at 

43 



44 C03UMENCE SEPARATE MEETINGS. 

a place. His services were secured^ and we com- 
menced our meetings in a sciLool-house, in Cooper 
Lane, known as Bliss's tan-j^ard. We were mnch 
pleased with the brother. He was poor, and 
worked at his trade, as carpenter. We agreed to 
give him two dollars per Sabbath. He continued 
with us about one month, when he received a call 
to settle with a church in Tariffville, which he 
accepted, and removed forthwith. We were now 
left without one to break unto us the bread of life. 
After this, the Rev. Grurdon Eobins, an ordained 
minister in our church, who was accustomed to 
supply destitute churches in the country, hire 
a conveyance which cost him two dollars and a 
half per week, ride over the mountains some 
ten or twelve miles, through the inclemency of 
the winter, and get for his service five dollars a 
Sabbath, seeing that we were destitute, he agreed 
to supply us during the winter for two dollars a 
Sabbath. This seemed quite providential. We 
made an agreement with him to supply us for the 
winter. He commenced his labors with us, and 
we thanked God, and took courage, and went on. 
He continued some four Sabbaths. During this 
time, we changed our location, and hired a room 



I 



FREQUENT CHANGES. 45 

on the main street^ a few doors above the Central 
Presbyterian Church. 

Soon after our removal^ one Sabbath afternoon, 
brother Robins requested me to remain, after 
preaching, as he had something he wished to com- 
municate to me. Much to my surprise, he told 
me he did not think he could preach for us any 
longer. I inquired the reason for this unexpected 
and sudden change in his views. He replied that he 
could not tell, but it did seem to him not to be his 
duty to remain. I asked him if he did not receive his 
pay according to agreement. He answered, so far as 
that was concerned, he was perfectly satisfied, but 
he felt, notwithstanding, he could not continue, and 
yet he could not give the reason. He wished me 
to inform the brethren that he could not serve them 
any longer. This I declined, telling him that he 
must come the next Sabbath, and tell his own story, 
to which he finally agreed. There were three col- 
ored brethren, besides myself, Primous Babcock, 
Zadi Jones, and Henry Jackson. During the week, 
I communicated to them the intelligence which 
I had received, and they were astonished and con- 
founded. 'We all felt cast down, and almost dis- 
couraged, but said nothing about it to the sisters, 



46 ANOTHER DISCOURAGEMENT. 

hoping that the brother might be prevailed on to 
change his mind. We sa-w him^ and said all to 
him that we could. We thought our prospects 
were flattering. We spoke of our fears that the 
interest would go down, and prove a failure, but 
all to no purpose. He said he must not do it; 
but he entertained no fears of our ultimate suc- 
cess. He believed the Lord had a hand in it, but 
could not at present understand His design, yet 
advised us to continue in prayer, and wait on the 
Lord, and we should see his salvation. 

The next Sabbath came ; the brother preached 
his farewell sermon, and commended us to the 
care of our heavenly Father. It was a weeping 
time. We felt that all of these things were against 
us. But. we resolved to go on, and trust in the 
Lord. It again fell to my lot to obtain supplies, 
in which duty I had been very successful. We 
were seldom without some one to break to us the 
bread of life. During the balance of the winter, 
we held regular prayer and conference meetings, 
and they were comforting and refreshing, and thus 
the Lord provided for us, and brought us to 
behold the spring. 

About this time, Eev. John Lewis, a free-will 



ENGAGE THE SERVICES OE BROTHER LEWIS. 47 

Baptist, visited Hartford, and preached for us a 
few times. AVe were pleased with, him, and 
invited him to supply us for a time. He sig- 
nified his willingness to labor with us for six 
months, if we desired it, if we could raise him 
twenty-five dollars per month. "We doulDted 
our ability to meet this sum ; but after delibera- 
tion upon the matter, we agreed to lay it before 
the church, and ask their ad^-ice, which we did. 
They finally concluded, if we were desirous to 
retain him, we might do so ; but we must continue 
our connection with the first church as formerly; 
and what we lacked of making up his salary, they 
would assist us to raise. 

He commenced his labors with us. Our hopes 
were buoyant, and our prospects were more flat- 
tering than ever. Our congregations increased, 
so that our place, which would accommodate about 
one hundred and fitly or tvy-o hundred, was quite 
full every Sabbath afternoon. 

Mr. Lewis continued to preach for us with great 
acceptance about one month. He then asked leave 
of absence for two weeks to visit his family, and 
bring his wife to Hartford, and spend the summer. 
This was unanimouslv asfreed to. We had no 



4S I)I:;APrOINTED AGAIX. 

trouble about raising liis monej; and lie left with 
the understanding that he would return in two or 
three weeks at the farthest. I was again appointed 
to obtain a supply. I worked hard. during the 
daj; and in the evenings would look for some one 
to break unto us the bread of eternal life. One 
month rolled on, and we heard nothing from our 
brother. Another month passed away, and yet we 
had no tidings from him. The people were much 
discouraged and perplexed. Yery much to our sur- 
prise, four or five months elapsed before we even 
heard of his whereabouts, but never were able to 
ascertain the reason of his peculiar course, which 
had so much embarrassed us. It was still my 
duty to procure supplies, and I am not avv^are 
that I ever took more delight than in soliciting 
brethren to preach the Word. 

It had now got to be autumn, and the winter 
was drawing nigh. We seemed to have no hope 
of procuring any one, and it became quite a serious 
consideration with some of us whether we had not 
better disband, and return to the church v/hich we 
were all confident would welcome us home. I 
went so far as to propose to the members the pro- 
priety of this course, and very strenuously to 



FIRST CHURCH SETTLES A PASTOR. 49 

advocate it. I found I was the only one that had 
any desire for it. They said they would sooner 
meet together, and sing and pray, than to think of 
such a course. They were determined to wait on 
the Lord, and see what he had in store for them. 

They charged me with being faithless. One 
good old sister, a thorough - going Baptist, a 
firm believer in the doctrine of sovereign grace, 
who has oftentimes strengthened and encouraged 
me, said to me, '^My dear brother, God will 
provide. Do not get weary in well doing, for in 
due season we shall reap, if we faint not." 

We resolved, therefore, to go on until we should 
see what the Lord would do for us. We really 
felt that there was a blessing in store even for 
us. I agreed to continue to procure supplies when 
ever it was possible. 

Meanwhile, the ^^ mother" church called another 
pastor, brother J. S. Eaton, from Maine, who was 
subsequently ordained ; Eev. Dr. Stow, of Boston, 
preaching a most impressive and eloquent dis- 
course from the words, "He was an eloquent man, 
and mighty in the Scriptures." (Acts xviii. 24.) 

The impression that sermon made on my mind 
I shall never forget. I saw in it more relating to 
3c 



50 THE SrTFICIENCY OF GOD. 

the work of the ministry than I had ever seen 
before. I was led to ask, '^Lord, who is sufficient 
for these things ?" But he anticipated my inquiry, 
and showed that his sufficiency was of the Lord. 
The church was once more blessed with a pas- 
tor, who commanded the esteem and affection of 
his people. 



CHAPTER A^IT. 

MY FIRST SERMON — PREACH BEFORE THE FIRST BAPTIST 
CHURCH, HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT— RECEIVE ITS AP- 
PROBATION AND LICENSE TO PREACH. 

The time had now arrived when the Lord was 
again pleased to manifest himself to my poor soul, ' 
for which I desire to praise his holy name through 
time and eternity. It seemed as though he would 
not let me go, although I had so richly merited 
his divine displeasure. After a while, I began to 
find it exceedingly difficult to obtain supplies for 
our new interest. On one cold and stormy Satur- 
day, I sought diligently for some one to preach to 
us on the morrow, devoting, I think, the most of 
the day to that purpose. But I sought in vain. 
Disappointed, perplexed, and wearj^, I returned 
to my home. The evening was to me one fraught 
Avith intense anxiety. Even domestic comforts 
and the prattling of my little daughter failed to 
lift the shadow from my mind. Thus discouraged, 
I retired to rest, in the vain hope of losing myself 

for a while in forgetfulness. But even in sleep, 

51 



52 CONVINCED OF DUTY. 

wliicli came tardily upon me, ttie question, wlio 
will preacli on tlie coming Sabbath, occupied my 
thoughts. Awaking suddenly from my feverish 
sleep, I imagined that I heard a voice, speaking 
intones as loud as thunder, ••'Preach yourself!" 
I immediately arose and fell upon my knees before 
the Lord, when it seemed to me as if all my expe- 
rience and all the circumstances of the past three 
years flashed with the speed and vividness of 
lightning upon my mind, from the conversation 
which I first had with deacon Brown until the 
present time. My emotions were so overpowering 
for a few moments, that I fancied myself to be 
utterly undone, A sense of the goodness of God 
arose before me with stupendou'^''Wagnitude.< I ^ 
felt that He had especially favored me, granting 1,(4^ 
ail my requests ; yea, He had even given me more 
than I had asked. When I reflected upon this, 
in contrast with my own loose conduct, I felt^/ 
ashamed and condemned, realizing my unfaithful- 
ness, and that my time and means for preparation 
were gone. I was convinced the Lord required J^l 
me immediately to comply with the command of 
the Saviour and the promises which I had made, 
but still my heart rebelled; I was unwilling to 
preach Christ to expose my ignorance, believing 



YIELD TO CONVICTIONS OF DUTY. 53 

it to be a most severe ordeal for any man, not 
thorougUy educated, to expose himself to the 
criticisms of those who might be better informed. 
I remained on my knees until self was conquered 
and my soul was blessed. I now consider this 
almost as great a work as was first wrought in my 
soul at its conversion. A perfect resignation pos- 
sessed me, and I promised the Lord, that night, 
that I would go just as I was and work in His - 
vineyard in any portion or capacity He might see I 
fit to appoint. I had done with dictation, and felt 
that I had nothing then to do but to obey. The 
language of my heart was, '^ Lord, what wilt thou 
have me do ?" I promised that I would commence 
on the very next day, if He so directed, and, fur- 
thermore, formed a resolution that, should I live 
until the coming Sabbath, I would communicate 
to my brethren what the Lord had done for me, 
and how, at last, he had conquered me. 

The hour of the Sabbath morning, for which I 
had been very impatient, at length arrived when 
I should meet with my brethren and sisters, and 
relate to them the Lord's special dealings with 
me during the past two or three years. Having 
arrived at the place of meeting, after introductory 
services, I arose and informed them of my failure 



54 FIRST ATTEMPT TO PREACH. 

to procure a supplV; liow the Lord had made 
Himself known to me in this matter, and what, 
by His gracious help, I intended to attempt. 
Then followed a weeping time. 'We wept and 
rejoiced together. The brethren thanked Grod for 
what He had done, and prayed that He would 
give me strength to keep my vows. They then 
inyited me to speak for them in the afternoon of 
the same day, an invitation which I accepted most 
thankfully, throwing myself entirely into the 
Lord's hands, believing that He would sustain 
me. I found, in the afternoon, that a larger con- 
gregation than usual was gathered, many being 
probably drawn there by motives of curiosity. 
I used as my text the fourth verse of the second 
chapter of Jonah, being, as I thought, most appro- 
priate to the existing circumstances. ^'Then I 
said, I am cast out of Thy sight ; yet will I look 
again toward Thy holy temple." The brethren 
professed to be edified and instructed, and bid- 
ding me '^God-speed!" insisted upon my continu- 
ing to speak to them, which I did every Sabbath 
afternoon until the following Spring. 

Very soon after I commenced to preach, two or 
three of the brethren of the parent church called 
upon me with the request that I would speak 



PREACH BEPORE THE FIEST CHURCH. OD 

before tliem on some "Wednesday evenings which, 
after some hesitation. I consented to do. When 
the evening came, as it had been circulated that I 
was to preach in the First Baptist Meeting-house, 
we had a much larger gathering of the church and 
congregation than usual. When I arrived at the 
lecture-room and saw vv-hat a concourse of people 
had gathered, I was completely overpowered. I got 
just inside the door, and sat down in a chair, and 
I think I could never have gone to the pulpit if 
my pastor had not come and taken me by the 
hand, and led me to the desk. I endeavored to 
address them from these words : ^' Seek ye first 
the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and 
all these things shall be added unto you.'' (Matt. 
xi, 33.) 

After I had concluded, the pastor made some 
remarks expressive of his appreciation of the dis- 
course, being followed by one of the deacons, 
who also avowed his entire approbation. The 
Eev. Gurdon Robins then remarked, that since he 
had heard my defence before the committee ap- 
pointed by the church to investigate certain diffi- 
culties with the colored members, he had been 
convinced that I was called to preach the Gospel. 
A motion was then made bv one of the deacons, 



56 LICENSE TO PREACH. 

and unanimously adopted, to the effect, ''That 
brother Jeremiah Asher receive the approbation 
of this church to preach the Gospel whenever and 
wherever opportunity is presented." 

The following is a copy of the formal license : — 

''This may certify that the bearer, Jeremiah 
Asher, is a member in full standing and fellow- 
ship with us, and we believe that he has gifts, 
which, if improved, will render him useful in the 
ministry. "We therefore cordially recommend him 
to improve his talents whenever God, in His pro- 
vidence, shall open a door. 

'^Done by order and in behalf of the First Bap- 
tist Church; Hartford, Connecticut, March, 1839.^' 
J. B. Gilbert, ) j^ 
Jeremiah Brown, f ^^«^^^- 
Joseph W. Dimock, OL Glh. 
J, S. Eaton, Pastor. 



CHAPTER VITL 

LEAVE FOR PROVIDENCE, R. I.— PROVIDENTIAL AID — 
C0M3IENCE A COURSE OF STUDY — PROPOSAL TO GO TO 
NEWTON THEOLOGICAL SE3IINARY — PROJECT ABAN- 
DONED — RETURN HOME — START FOR PHILADELPHIA — 
HEAVY SLEEPING — PREACH IN NEW YORK AND 
PHILADELPHIA. 

After having obtained tlie approbation of the 
church, my mind became much exercised about 
leaving Hartford to go elsewhere^ in order to 
improve myself in general knowledge. I realized 
that I had squandered many precious opportuni- 
ties; and that it now became me to ^^ redeem the 
time." After much meditation and prayer, I 
determined on going to Providence; E. I. I then 
communicated my decision to my colored breth- 
ren and sisterS; telling them that, as dearly as I 
loved them, I felt it to be my duty to leave them, 
at the same time giving them the reasons which 
had brought me to this conclusion. Although 
with great reluctance, they at length expressed 
agreement with my opinion as to the desirable- 
ness of the movement. 

3^ 57 



58 SLVKE ARRANGEMENTS TO LEAVE HO:\IE. 

At a subsequent conference meeting of the 
clinrcli, when^ however^ but few were present on 
account of the inclemency of tbe weather, I 
brought the whole matter before them, and 
requested assistance for myself, and that they 
would pay some attention to my helpless family, 
during my absence, which I did not at that time 
suppose would be protracted beyond four or five 
weeks. They cheerfully complied with my re- 
quest, and some few of the brethren subscribed a 
sufficient amount to pay my travelling expenses ; 
but, after dividing with my wife, I found that I 
had but five dollars remaining. 

A few days afterwards, notwithstanding the 
reluctance of my wife, who could not see it to be 
my duty to take the step which I had proposed, 
and leave my family in a helpless condition — 
having made my arrangements, I started on my 
journey of seventy miles, on a cold spring day, 
with but one dollar in my purse, after having 
paid my fare. The thought of this caused me to 
waver. I was going, without means, to a place 
where I knew not a single individual, but yet my 
trust was in Grod. 

I was alone in the stage-coach for the greater 
part of the journey, being the only '^through" 



jorPvXrr to PKOViDrxci:. 59 

passenger. Then, I could not but think that, if 
there is such a thing as Satan being permitted to 
make a direct personal attack, he was making a 
severe onslaught upon me by placing before me a 
severe temptation ; for^ had the stage stopped at 
some convenient place, I was inclined to alight 
and return to my home. Many embarrassing 
thoughts passed through my mind. I reflected 
that I was going among a strange people, who, 
for aught I knew, were neither liberal nor hos- 
pitable. I was v>^thout money. From what 
source, then, could I expect subsistence. It might 
be, that among all the colored population, there 
were no Baptists, Besides, I had no acquaint- 
ances whatever in the city. Nevertheless, natural;, 
and discouraging as these thoughts were, casting 
me down almost to the lowermost depths of fear, 
I determined to proceed, and in due time was 
landed at the Manufacturers' Hotel, where I en- 
gaged board for three dollars per week, trusting 
to the interposing help of Divine Providence. 

Having taken with me a letter of introduction 
from my pastor to one of his old classmates, the 
late Eev. M. M. Dean, then pastor of the Third 
Baptist Church in Providence, after a night's rest, 
I hastened to deliver it. Not finding him home, 



60 INTERyiET7 WITH REY. M. M. DEAX. 

I lengthened my walk. On returning to the hotel, 
I found that he had called and left an invitation 
for me to renew my attempt to see him, and par- 
take of his hospitality by dining with him. On 
the following day, I enjoyed a very pleasant inter- 
view, and, although no reference was made to the 
object of my visit, I felt much cheered and encour- 
aged. When about to leave, Mr. Dean informed 
me that a sister of my late pastor desired to see 
me. Although she was at the time very sick, and 
refused to receive most of her visitors, yet she 
desired to have an interview with me. 

At the hour appointed on the following day, I 
found access to the sick chamber, and received 
from Miss Phebe Jackson a hearty welcome. At 
her own request, I gave her fully the reasons for 
my visiting Providence, communicating to her my 
desires, and the action of the First Church in Hart- 
ford. After expressing her opinion that the 
church should have provided the means, she sug- 
gested that some way might be opened by Avhich 
I could extend my knowledge of geography, 
arithmetic, and grammar, 'manifested very much . 
interest in my project, and encouraged me to per- 
severe. She desired me to call again on the fol- 
lowing day, hoping, in the meantime, to procure 



PECUNIARY ASSISTANCE. 61 

me lodgings where my expenses would be re- 
duced. On my retiring, she placed in my hands 
five dollars, and bade me God-speed. I was com- 
pelled to regard this as an interposition of Divine 
Providence, for no one in the city could be ac- 
quainted with the slenderness of my pecuniary 
means. I was well clad, and had not, and 
did not intend to mention to any one my pecu- 
niary necessities, thinking, if the Lord had sent 
me. He would provide. I therefore praised the 
Lord for His goodness in providing for me that 
which I most lacked at this peculiar juncture. 

On the following day, according to appoint- 
ment, I again called upon Miss Jackson, and 
found, to my delight, that she had procured for 
me a temporary home with a family formerly of 
Hartford, who appeared to be acquainted with 
me. There I remained for two months, meanwhile 
receiving instruction daily from two of the stu- 
dents of Brown University. I afterwards received 
much valuable instruction from the Rev. Dr. Dow- 
ling, who was at that time pastor of one of the 
Baptist churches in Providence. To him my 
thanks are always due. Gratified by my progress, 
those gentlemen suggested the expediency of my 
being sent to Newton Theological Seminary. 



02 PROPOSAL TO FORM A CHURCH IN PROYIDEXCE. 

Acting upon tliis^ Miss Jackson procured the aid 
of the Eev. Mr. Dean to correspond with, the 
President of that institution. The reply was most 
favorable^ and he consented to take me for two 
years. T verily thought then that the way was 
clear; and my prospects brighter than ever. But 
how mysterious are the designs of God; and His 
ways past finding out ! ^^j/Yytf 

About the same time^ another object was pre- 
sented to my consideration. A church edifice^ 
used for some years as a '' Union" Meeting-house, 
but owned principally by the colored members of 
the regular Baptist churches of the city — recently 
occupied by the Free-will Baptists — now becoming 
available; it was suggested to form a new Baptist 
interest; that I should abandon all idea of going 
to Newton, and accept its charge. A number of 
the members of the First Church were particularly 
desirous that this plan should succeed. The pro- 
ject was presented to me in such a manner, that; 
reluctant as I was to abandon my anticipated 
course of study, I felt that my duty was clear, 
especially as the propositions came from so re- 
spectable a source. Miss Jackson, however, con- 
sidering^ it best to leave the whole matter with the 
church, for its decision, I was willing that my 



MY COUESE DETERmNED. 63 

future should be so determined. Having now 
decided to visit my familv, this ''mother in Israel/' 
in connection with other Christian ladies, \rho had 
sho^NTL me many other kindnesses, most gene- 
rously paid all my expenses of board and educa- 
tion for the two months that had passed. Herein 
I could see what the Lord is willing to do for 
those who trust Him. Surely he is round about 
those who fear and love His holy name. 

Previous to my leaving for home, some promi- 
nent members of the First Baptist Church in 
Providence wrote to the First Baptist Church in 
Hartford, laying before them all the facts in the 
case. My own church agreed with that in Pro- 
vidence; they advised me to give up the project of 
going to Newton, and content myself with such. 
opportunities for obtaining instruction as might 
be afforded in Providence. My brethren gave the 
following as their reasons for this recommendation: 
1st. As I was getting somewhat advanced in life, 
I should be admonished that whatsoever I ex- 
pected to do for Christ, I should do quickly ; and 
2d. That the whole arrangement in relation to the 
proposed organization of the new interest seemed 
to be the resnlt of my labors. My duty was, 
therefore, in their opinion, plainly indicated by the 



64 INCIDENT ON BOARD STEA3IB0AT. 

leadings of Providence. Upon this^ I yielded 
my judgment to what I considered the better 
judgment of the churches, and have ever believed 
that I was directed by the Lord. 

Although the incident does not chronologically 
foUoW; I will close this chapter by a relation of 
one of the most humorous events of my life, 
giving some account of one of my trips from Pro- 
vidence to New York. I believe that it occurred 
very soon after my settlement in the former city. 
I had embarked in one of the steamers plying 
between the two cities, on my way to attend a 
convention to be held in Pliiladelphia. Although 
I paid the full cabin fare, the captain refused to 
give me a' ticket for a berth, but assured me, in 
the presence of the steward, that he would give 
him directions, at the proper time, to provide me 
with one. The steamboat train from Boston 
•brought an unusually large number of passengers, 
and as all of the berths would be required, I 
saw there was no hope for me. We were soon 
under way for New York. The captain sent for 
me to make my appearance at his ofl&ce. De- 
clining to go, he repeated the summons, when, 
with my curiosity a little aroused, I presented 
myself before the window of the office. lie desired 



INCIDENT ON BOARD STEAMBOAT. 65 

to see my ticket, whicli lie took from my hands, 
giving me, in return, another, a deck ticket, 
with fifty cents, at the same time very suddenly 
closing his window. (This being an opposition 
boat, the cabin fare was one dollar, and the 
deck fare fifty cents.) For a moment I was 
amazed, but, upon consideration, very soon saw 
the drift of the trick. I concluded that I would 
try and be even with him. Therefore, although 
it was yet quite early in the evening, I sought 
the steward, of whom I requested a berth, that I 
might retire. He recommended me to wait until 
after supper, which I would gladly have done 
under other circumstances. But I strenuously 
urged my desire for rest. After very much par- 
leying, he at length granted my request, and 
showed me my berth, when, contrary to my habit 
when travelling, I undressed and retired. I intended 
not to be removed very easily. About eleven 
o'clock, as the captain and clerk were taking their 
rounds to examine tickets, they came to me. I 
was apparently in a sound slumber, but, shaking 
me most violently, they almost drew me from my 
berth. I rolled back, and apparently slept on, 
when the captain said to the clerk, ''You must 

wake him, for he has only a deck ticket." Then 
C2 



66 PROVIDENTIAL MEANS FOR TRAVELLING. 

they undertook to searcli me^ but I still slept. 
Giving it up as hopelesS; after another ineffectual 
shaking, the captain said, ''Well, let him alone. 
But in all my life I never saw a man sleep so 
heavily." 

I would mention, as a pleasing sequel to the 
foregoing, a fact in connection with my few hours' 
stay in New York. Upon my arrival, I received 
an invitation to preach in the Zion Baptist Church 
in the evening, and to supply their pulpit on the 
following Sabbath. I hesitated how to decide, 
being anxious to move on immediately to Phila- 
delphia. But yet I had not the means to pay my 
passage. I did not intend to ask for assistance. 
This I have never done for that special purpose. 
"When the time of the evening appointment came, 
I went and preached from a part of the nineteenth 
verse of the fourteenth chapter of Paul's Epistle 
to the Eoman's, ''Let us therefore follow after the 
things which make for peace." When I had con- 
cluded, a lady, whom I had never before met, 
placed a bill in my hand, saying that the sermon 
to which she had just listened was to her at least 
worth that much. Upon examination, I found 
that she had presented me with three dollars, just 
my passage money to Philadelphia. I therefore 



FIRST VISIT TO PHILADELPHIA. 67 

decided to proceed onwards immediately, and 
spend a Sabbath witli my friends of the Zion 
Church on my return. On my arrival in Phila- 
delphia, I met with the Eev. Daniel Scott, pastor 
of the Union Baptist Chnrch^ preached for him 
on the Sabbath, and continued to labor with his 
people for four or five weeks. This was the com- 
mencement of my work for Christ in Philadel- 
phia, little supposing that that city was to be the 
field of so manv vears of future labor, it^—] 



CHAPTEE IX. 

RETURN TO PROVIDENCE— ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH 
— ORDINATION — SIY FIRST BAPTISM — A STRANGE VIS- 
ITOR—ADDITIONS TO THE CHX^RCH— BAPTISM OF MY 
WIFE— ADVANTAGES OF OPPOSITION— MEETING HOUSE 
REPAIRED — RESIGNATION. 

I HAVE; indeed; learned by experience that 

' ' God moves in a mysterious way 
His wonders to perform." 

His dealings with, me have been always merciful 

and gracious. Yet many a timC; when He has 

led me in a new path; although I could feel His 

hand; I could not understand the way. Had I 

not walked by the faith which He imparted, I 

should have multiplied my crooked paths. 

After spending about one month with my 

family and friendS; believing now, as led by the 

counsel of the churcheS; that I had an important 

work to dO; I returned to Providence; whence I 

was soon permitted to send for my family. My 

first duty was to make arrangements for the 

organization of the church. This donC; a council 

convened on the ninth day of December, 1840. 
68 



CHURCH ORGANIZATION AND FIRST BAPTISM. 69 

The council was composed of delegates from tiie 
First, Second, Third, and Fonith churches of Pro- 
vidence; First Church, Pa^vtucket ; and the Inde- 
pendent Church of Boston. The church was 
organized in due form with the unanimous appro- 
bation of the council. It was originallj composed 
of seven brethren and two sisters, one of whom 
was a confirmed invalid, and very seldom able to 
attend upon the public means of grace. The 
public service of recognition took place in the 
afternooru 

On the evening of that day, having been 
previously examined by the same council, I was 
ordained to the work of the Gospel ministry, the 
Rev. George Black preaching the ordination ser- 
sermon from 2 Timothy iv. 2 — ''Preach the Word." 

The first Sabbath, January, 1841, we had a 
candidate for baptism, an elderly lady, about 
seventy years of age, by the name of Ohve 
Seepet. The day was bitter cold. Our place to 
administer the ordinance was in the iSTarraoransett 
Eiver, quite the southern boundary of the city. 
As I went down into the water with this candi- 
date, I felt quite nervous ; but I thought I must 
say a word by way of comfort to my subject, so I 
commenced by saying to her, ''Don't be afraid." 



70 HAPrY TRAYER-MEETING INCIDENT. 

She replied, "It is you that is afraid, not me." I 
then proceeded to baptize her in the name of the 
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. 

A circumstance transpired about this time to 
"which my memory often recurs, especially when 
I am in the prayer-meeting. The sister just bap- 
tized was the only one of three at all accustomed ''^- 
to attend the prayer-meetings, whilst her age and 
infirmity necessarily made her attendance irregu- 
lar. Upon one occasion, having arrived at the 
place of meeting quite early, I found that none 
of the members were present. Yery soon, how- 
ever, I noticed the presence of a lady, an intimate 
friend, who came statedly to hear me preach. I 
regretted her coming that evening, as I feared 
that she might be discouraged from repeating her 
visit. I therefore attempted to persuade her to 
leave, by telling her that it was " only a prayer- 
meeting." She replied, '^I know it." I then 
expressed the opinion that there would not be 
many out. "I do not think that there will be," 
she answered. I then concluded to let her alone, 
and found that, for the succeeding ten years that 
I remained in Providence, she was regular in 
attendance on the means of grace. In a few 
weeks after her first visit, I had the pleasure of 



BAPTISM OF MY WIFE. 71 

burying this sister with Christ in baptism^ and 
introducing her to the Christian church, since ^^ 
which time she has, supported by the grace of 
God, been a worthy example to believers. From 
this fact, I ^earned a lesson. Ever since the first 
visit of my sister to the prayer-meeting, I have ' 
been far more desirous, under all circumstances, 
to persuade persons to attend, rather than to leave, 
the house of prayer. 

The next month (February) I baptized two, one 
of whom was my wife — a fact of thrilling interest 
to the church and congregation, and of comfort 
and encouragement to myself. The day was one 
of the coldest of the season. She was an invalid, 
unable to walk without her crutch and cane. This 
excited deep interest; and notwithstanding the 
extreme cold and the distance to the place, yet 
hundreds went to behold the administration..' 
Many thought the act to be imprudent, whilst ^, 
others feared the result would be injurious to her 
already feeble and almost hopeless condition, so 
far as her bodily health was concerned. But the 
reverse of this was the fatet. She began to improve 
in health from that day, and was soon able to walk 
with the aid of her cane only, and even to attend 
to most of her household duties. 



KINDNESS OF FRIENI>S. 



My salary was but tliree hundred dollars per 
year while in Providence; and yet the Lord 
helped me^ and raised up friends for me. I speak 
it with gratitude and thankfulness. Foremost 
amonsf these were brethren and sisters of the 
First Church, Eev. Dr. Wayland, Eev. Dr. Gran- 
ger, Mr. Henry Marchant, Miss Phebe Jackson, 
Mrs. Joseph Rogers, Mrs. Hope Ives, and Mrs. 
Samuel G. Arnold. I never appealed to one of 
them in vain. Most of the assistance which they 
rendered me was unsolicited. At the outset, one- 
half of my salary was raised by the church, and 
the other half appropriated by the Rhode Island 
State Convention, mostly through the influence of 
deacon Yarnum J. Bates and brother Henry Mar- 
chant, vdio ever proved true and faithful friends 
to me. 

The next month (March) the Lord was pleased 
to bless our feeble efforts still more, and we bap- 
tized into the likeness of Christ's death, five 
sisters. In the month following, seven more were 
added by baptism. In the short time of four 
months, fifteen females were added to the orisrinal 
nine, and some two or three by letter. 

When we first commenced, our opponents gave 
us six months to complete our history, saying that 



SUCCESS AND PEKSECIJTIOX. 73 

neitlier the pastor nor people were equal to the 
work we had undertaken. Nevertheless, we were 
not discouraged, for we remembered that it was 
not by might nor by power that the work was to 
be accomplished, but by the Spirit of God alone. 

So we moved on, regardless of all that Satan 
could say. It was even predicted that we should 
have to use the females instead of men for officers, 
as the latter would never join our feeble band, 
even if converted. This, I confess, caused me 
some anxiety; but I felt that the battle was the 
Lord^s. The contest, however, appeared to wax 
hotter and hotter with every aggressive movement 
we made upon the kingdom of Satan. In less 
than one year, I baptized eight or ten young men, 
making about twenty-five added to our member- 
ship, thus giving us, in all, thirty-two members. 
All kinds of stories were in circulation about us, 
and especially about my preaching, which created 
much excitement among the people, so that, being 
induced by curiosity, many were attracted to hear 
me preach. Some of these came to Stay, and 
became my warmest friends and the ablest 
contributors to the church until the day of their 
death. 

I will mention one of these as a case in point, 
4d 



74 CURIOSITY TO HEAR ME PREACH. 

namely, that of Mrs. Patience Proffitt, an old 
resident of the city, and, like many others, living 
npon her morality, thinking herself good enough /\ 
without attending church. I think this place of 
worship had been built twenty years, and she told 
me she had never been to it once. She had heard 
so much said about me and the church, as to come 
to the conclusion that I must be indeed a dreadful 
creature. Her strong desire to hear me, however, 
overpowered her objections to going to church. 
She accordingly came, once and again, and yet 
again. Within four weeks, it was my happiness 
to baptize her into the fellowship of the church. 
From that day she pu.rsued a highly consistent 
course, being constant in her attendance at the 
house of God, always ready for every good word 
and work, and contributing most liberally for the 
support of the pastor and the general expenses of 
the church — at least twelve dollars per year. 

The enemy seeing that he was not only thus 
foiled, but that he was conferring upon us a real 
benefit, changed his tactics, and ^^ behold! there 
was a great calm." Every thing said of us now 
was by way of commendation; and the world 
spoke approvingly of our enterprise and success. 
But this proved to be more injurious to us than 



MAKING REPAIRS. 75 

any thing we had experienced before. From that 
day the cause began to wane. Alas ! month after 
month now passed, and none inquired the way to 
Zion with their faces thitherwards. 

We now began to turn our attention to the 
condition of the material building, which, since 
its erection, twenty years before, had not received 
any repairs. We found that it needed painting 
and thorough renovation, both externally and 
internally. We proposed to expend some seven 
hundred dollars upon the house ; but the mode of 
raising the money was difficult to decide. The 
general superintendence of the whole movement 
fell to my lot. It devolved upon me to make the 
contracts, to take a general supervision of the 
work, to procure the funds, and pay the bills. 
All this, in addition to my engagements to preach 
four times in each week, made my labors very 
arduous. I succeeded in collecting from friends 
about five hundred and seventy-five dollars, leav- 
ing the remainder to be provided by the church. 
The work occupied some six or eight months, 
giving us, when completed, one of the best, the 
neatest, and most commodious places of worship 
in the city, so much so, that many of the colored 
people regarded it as quite aristocratic. Notwith- 



76 RESIGNATION. 

standing the aspersions cast npon myself and the 
churchy it became an acknowledged fact that we 
were the strongest; and^ the most influential 
bodj; w^ith the best house of worship of any 
of the colored churches of Providence. Thus, 
under God, had we become established with a 
seeming bright prospect before us. We now num- 
bered sixty-fiye members. Probably as much 
was accomplished during the first three years as 
during the following seven of my pastorate. 

I now began to think of making a change. 
After enjoying the kindness of a large circle of 
friendS; and the confidence of my brethren in the 
denomination, and having, as I hoped, learned 
some useful lessons in my ministerial work, and 
especially in the item of church government, upon 
consultation with my much esteemed and honored 
friend, the Eev. Dr. Way land, I resolved to resign 
my charge of the Meeting Street Baptist Church 
of Providence, which resolution was soon exe- 
cuted, and my resignation presented. 

I knew not yet, however, whither to turn my 
steps ; but still I trusted in the Lord for direction. 
My heart being drawn towards Baltimore, I soli- 
cited Dr. Wayland to write William Creho, Esq., 
and ascertain if, in the judgment of his friends 



KIND MINISTERIAL ADVICE. 77 

it would be expedient to commence a new interest 
in that city. The answer being that the propriety 
of such a movement was decidedly doubtful, the 
plan was immediately abandoned. At this stage, 
as at other times, I received some wise and kind 
counsel from the Doctor, which I shall ever re- 
member with gratitude. Would that others 
would imitate him in showing uniform kindness 
to their poorer brethren! He gave me good 
advice. One thing he told me I must never do ; 
that was, not to make, or attempt to make, any 
important change affecting my own interest, or 
the interest of the church with which I might 
be connected, without first taking counsel with 
the leading brethren in the denomination touch- 
ing the subject. I hope ever to heed this counsel, 
for I find there is wisdom in it. 



CHAPTER X. 

RESIGNATION ACCEPTED— VISIT PHILADELPHIA AND WASH- 
INGTON — ACCEPT THE CALL OF THE ''SHILOH" BAP- 
TIST CHURCH — INSTALLATION — BAPTISM— PREPARA- 
TION TO LEAVE EOR ENGLAND — OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS. 

In" the early spring of 1848, my resignation of 
the pastorate of the church in Providence; ten- 
dered six months before, having been accepted, 
I was again at liberty, and needed rest. This 
however, was denied, as, in less than a month, I 
received invitations from Eochester, Washington, 
and other places. I immediately declined Eoches- 
ter, as the Eev. Dr. Church, then the pastor of 
the First Baptist Church of that city, who had 
held out to me strong inducements to accept the 
oversight of the colored church in Eochester, was 
about to leave. I accepted, however, the invita- 
tion to visit Washington, especially as I had long 
desired to go South. 

So soon as I could make the necessary arrange- 
ments, I started for my destination. Tarrying in 

Philadelphia over the Sabbath, I was invited and 

78 



CORRESPONDENCE WITH SHILOH CHURCH 79 

consented to preach for the Shiloh Baptist Church, 
then destitute of a pastor, although without any 
idea of preaching '^on trial.'' Subsequently, how- 
ever, a correspondence was opened with me by 
deacon Westward F. Keeling, who removed from 
my mind some unfounded prejudices which I had 
hitherto entertained against the church, after which, 
brother Keeling suggested that I should again 
visit them at their expense. After my visit to 
Washington, I acceded to their request, and 
preached for them two Sabbaths, having a very 
pleasant visit, and being very agreeably dis- 
appointed by what I saw and heard. After a 
somewhat lengthened correspondence, extending 
over two months, I finally considered it to be my 
duty to accept their ^^call," with a salary of four 
hundred dollars. It was agreed, also, that I 
should proceed to England to solicit funds for the 
liquidation of their church debt. In less than 
one year, therefore, from the time of my resigning 
my position in Providence, I was publicly installed 
as pastor of the Shiloh Baptist Church, Philadel- 
phia, having also spent some three months or 
more with the Second Church in Washington, D. 
C. The installation service was an occasion of 
deep interest, many of the ministering brethren 



80 INSTALLATION— PREPARATION FOR DEPARTURE. 

of the city taking part in the exercises, and the 
Eev. W. L. Dennis^ then pastor of the New Mar- 
ket Street Church, preaching the sermon from 
2 Cor. iv. 5: — "We preach not ourselves, but 
Christ Jesus, the Lord," &c. 

The reasons which actuated me to decide upon 
this field of labor, in preference to others, were 
principally the following: — 

1st. The Shiloh Baptist Church occupied the 
most substantial and commodious church edifice 
in the denomination, occupied by the colored 
people in any city of the Union. 

2d. On account of pressing"^ liabilities, it was in 
danger of passing out of their hands ; and 

3d. It was situated in the midst of a dense 
population who needed the Word of Life. 

I felt, therefore, that if at least the building 
could be saved, a good work would be elBfected. 
No one doubted my inadequacy for the task more 
than myself; but, after mature deliberation and 
earnest prayer to God for direction, trusting in 
His strength alone, I entered upon my labors. 

After about two months' labor with the church, 
I returned to my family in Providence to make 
preparation for my visit to England, there appear- 
ing no alternative but to seek funds abroad. 



CONTINUED PREPARATIONS. 81 

On my arrival home; my companion, wlio was 
still afflicted with the disease in her limbs, and 
had the care of our two children, appeared averse 
to my taking such a step, doubting whether, 
under the circumstances, it was my duty. But 
believing that I could trust them safely in the 
hands of our heavenly Father, who is the Helper 
of the helpless, I soon completed my arrange- 
ments, and parted in the full hope of meeting 
again under a brighter sky. 

The next Sabbath, being the third Lord's day 
in May, I again met with my brethren in Phila- 
delphia, and had the privilege of baptizing three 
candidates into the fellowship of the church, and 
of administering the ordinance of the Lord's Sup- 
per. We all felt it to be a blessed day, and were 
much encouraged. Mutual congratulations were 
made, and a mutual covenant entered into to be 
more faithful to each other and our Saviour. 

The time of departure was fixed for the tenth 
day of the month following, for which the church 
commenced to make active preparation. The 
intervening time was indeed a season of trial, 
which only those who have had a similar experi- 
ence can justly appreciate. 

A committee of the church having been ap- 



82 APPEAL TO THE CHURCHES IN GREAT BRITAIN. 

pointed to prepare a letter of appeal to our Eng- 
lish bretliren, it was presented and adopted on the 
twelfth of June. One was also received from the 
pastors of the citj; and a certificate from his 
Honor, the Major, a copy of each of which is 
here subjoined:— 

SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH, PHILADELPHIA. 
Philadelphia, State op Pexnsylyakia, U. S. A. 
June 12, 1849. 
The ** Shiloh'' Baptist Church of Philadelphia^ ^Ho the Churches 
of the same faith and order , and to all the friends of the Re- 
deemer^ in the United Kingdom of Great Britain^ Scotland^ 
and Ireland^ send Greeting, 

Dear Brethren : We, the members composing the 
**Shiioh Baptist Church,'' would respectfully and affection- 
ately call the attention of their brethren and friends abroad 
to the present condition of their church and finances, and 
solicit a share of their kind assistance to enable them to 
complete their house of worship. 

Our corner-stone was laid on the 29th of September, 1845, 
and great and difficult as the work appeared to be, we have 
not only succeeded in building a house for the worship of 
God, but in raising the sum of two thousand dollars towards 
the payment of the same. 

The balance of four thousand dollars we still owe^ and have 
been called upon, and urged to raise, and our earnest desire 
is to be released from the pressure of this obligation. Now, 
dear brethren, we call upon you, as the professed friends of 
our Lord and Master, to aid us in this laudable effort. The 
members of our own '^ Shiloh," according to their circum- 
stances, have exerted themselves to the very extent of their 



APPEAL CONTINUED. 83 

abilities ; and our friends in this city and elsewhere have 
afforded us much encouragement and generous aid in the 
prosecution of our noble enterprise ; therefore, having done 
what we could at home^ we resolved^ after solemn delibera- 
tion and prayer, to go abroad^ and sohcit from friends across 
the Atlantic, a share of that hberality which we believe they 
are ever ready cheerfully to exercise to objects of Christian 
worth. 

To this end we have appointed our beloved brother and 
pastor, Jeremiah Asher, in whom we have all confidence, to 
travel and visit the churches and brethren in England, 
Scotland, and Ireland, and lay before them the present con- 
dition of our pecuniary obligations, and obtain their free 
offerings. This brother we would respectfully recommend 
to you, and refer you to him for all the particulars embraced 
within the circle of our affairs. 

We trust, dear brethren, coming among you as he does, 
in the name of the Lord and our ^^Shiloh," that his visit 
will not be in vain ; that you will not forget, in this instance, 
** Ethiopia is stretching forth her hands unto God," and 
that every one of you unto whom appUcation shall be made 
will give according as he purposeth in his heart. 

Done by order and in behalf of the church at a regular 
church meeting, held on the 12th June, 1849, and signed by 

Joii^ Brown, Church Clerk. 
Westward F. Keeling, " 
Spencer 3Iitchell, 



Moses Williams, 
MrKEs Almond, 
Edwin Johnson, 
Egbert Ruefin, 

City of Philadelphia, ) 
State of Pennsylvania, ) 



BeacoTis, 



84 pastors' letter of GO]VniENDATION. 

The undersigned pastors of Baptist churches in the city 
and county of Philadelphia, State of Pennsylvania, United 
States of America, beg leave most cordially to recommend 
the bearer, Rev. Jeremiah Asher, to the confidence and 
esteem of their brethren in England, to which country he 
goes, to obtain some aid in f)aying for a neat and conve- 
nient house of worship, which is unfortunately in danger of 
passing from the possession of the church, unless funds are 
procured to meet their pressing liabilities. In this new 
country, claims of this kind are so frequent and pressing, 
in order to provide religious instruction for the vast num- 
bers of emigrants crowding from the old countries to our 
shores, that it is impossible for us to meet them all. We 
feel that we have a sort of claim upon England to aid us in 
our efforts for the evangelizing of this land, in which so 
many of her own subjects are finding homes. 

J. Lansing Burrows, Pastor of Broad Street Church, 

Philadelphia. 
Joseph Belcher, late Pastor of Mount Tabor Baptist 

Church. 
B. R. LoxLEY, Schuylkill Branch, First Church, Philada. 
Thomas S. Malcolm, Cor. Sec. of the American Baptist 

Publication Society. 
W. L. Dennis, Pastor of ITew Market Street Baptist 

Church, Philadelphia. 
Daniel Scott, Pastor of the Union Baptist Church. 
Daniel Dodge, Pastor of Second Baptist Church in 

Philadelphia. 
George B. Ide, Pastor of First Baptist Church, Phila- 
delphia. 
A. D. Gillette, Pastor of the Eleventh Baptist Church, 

Philadelphia. 



THE mayor's certificate. 85 

George J. Miles, Pastor of the Third Baptist Church, 

Philadelphia. 
John A. McKean, Pastor of the Second Church, South- 

wark, Philadelphia. 
George Kempton, Pastor of Spruce Street Baptist Ch., 

Philadelphia. 
Edgar M. Levy, Pastor of the Baptist Church, West 

Philadelphia. 

Personally came before me, John Swift, Esq., Mayor of 
the city of Philadelphia, on this eleventh day of June, Anno 
Domini one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine, the Rev. 
A. D. Gillette, vrho is personally known to me as pastor of 
one of the Baptist churches of this city, and who acknow- 
ledged in my presence that his name, as signed to the 
annexed recommendation of the Rev. Jeremiah Asher, &c. 
&c., is in his own proper hand-writing, and that he, the 
said Rev. Mr. Gillette, was acquainted personally with all 
the other reverend gentlemen signers thereto, and that their 
signatures were all genuine, and in their own proper hand- 
writings. In testimony whereof, I have hereto set my 
hand, and have caused the corporate seal of said city to be 
affixed the day and year above written. 

John Swift, Mayor. 

An effort was now made to raise the necessary 
funds to defray the expenses of the voyage. 
This being secured, passage was taken for me on 
the ^'Saranak/' to sail on the twenty -fifth of June. 
The fare being paid, but a very small sum re- 
mained to pay my first expenses in England. 



86 LIMITED >IEANS FOR THE JOURNEY. 

Verily, I must have been possessed of assurance, 
or strong faith, to have proceeded with only 
twenty dollars in my pocket beyond my passage 
money. But the Lord directed my way, for such 
were my discouragements on my first arrival in 
Great Britain, that, had I possessed the means, I 
should certainly have retraced my steps without 
seeing much of England, or benefitting ^^Shiloh." 
I have since concluded it was well for me and the 
church that my means were limited to the pay- 
ment of my passage and some other things which 
were indispensable to my comfort. But the Lord 
knows best how to further His own designs, and 
adapts the means to the end. 



CHAPTER XL 

MY DEPARTURE — INCIDENTS OP THE VOYAGE — DEATH 
AND FUNERAL ON SHIPBOARD — ARRIVAL AT LIVER- 
POOL — FIRST contriblt:ions. 

I NOW proceed to commence that whicli I deem 
to be the most important part of my simple nar- 
rative, and give a condensed account of my tour 
in England, and the progress of my mission. 

At noon, on the twenty-fifth day of June, with 
the thermometer pointing at over one hundred in 
the shade, accompanied by a large concourse of 
brethren and sisters, I proceeded to Walnut Street 
wharf, and embarked on board the sailing-ship 
''Saranak," bound for Liverpool. After bidding 
farewell to my dear friends, with a somewhat 
heavy but hopeful heart, and dropping the tear 
of friendship, we were soon under way, and in 
tow by a steamer bound for the Capes. My first 
movement was to look around upon my fellow- 
passengers Avho were to be the companions of my 
voyage. These I found to be forty in number, 

four being in the first cabin, eight (including my- 

87 



88 INCIDENTS ON SHIPBOARD. 

self) in tlie second cabin, and the remainder in the 
steerage. 

Oar starting was indeed promising. The cool 
breeze was delightful; and the prospect of a pros- 
perous voyage was good. We supposed that we 
were not long to continue in tow. And so it hap- 
pened, for the second day we commenced to beat 
out by the Capes, the winds being '' ahead." Previ- 
ous to parting company with the steamer, however, 
a singular circumstance occurred, which I consider 
to be worth relating, as being one of novelty. We 
had in company the ship ^'Thomas H. Perkins," 
which was for a while towed by the same tug. 
On board of the ^^ Perkins" was a brother of one 
of our own passengers. Both had families, and 
proposed to exchange a visit. No sooner, how- 
ever was the proposition carried into effect, than 
the ships parted their lines; the brothers were 
separated, husbands and wives, fathers and chil- 
dren, until they arrived in Liverpool. The annoy- 
ance and sorrow resulting from such a catastrophe 
can be better imagined than described. 

I was now to enter fairly upon ''a life on the 
ocean wave." The experience of the first few 
days, however, did not dishearten me. But I very 
soon found that I was doomed to that scourge of 



SICKNESS OF ONE OF THE PASSENGERS. 89 

the ocean — sea-sickness. However essential to a 
landsman this may be for an experience of ocean 
life, I cannot but pronounce it as very far from 
being pleasant. Previous to leaving land, I had 
intended to devote much time to reading and 
writing ; but now I found myself to be entirely 
incapacitated for any such exercises. In fact, I 
had no disposition either to do or to enjoy any- 
thing. 

One of our number in the second cabin was an 
invalid passenger, by the name of Brooks, the son 
of a widow, and returning home, apparently, to 
die. I could not but take an interest in his case, 
and therefore offered him all the assistance which 
it might be in my power to render. When this 
sea-sickness assailed me, I could not but feel 
doubly aggrieved, as I was unable to give him ^^^ 
any aid or comfort. 

But little occurred during the whole voyage to 
destroy its monotony. We had the usual changes 
of calm and storm, of mnd and rain, and of 
standing still and making progress, which is the 
almost invariable experience of those "who go 
down to the sea in ships." Having these opportu- 
nities to view the wondrous power of Almighty 

God, and the stupendous majesty of the waters 
2d 



90 HIS EARLY CONVERSION TO CHRISTIANITY. 

which He holds in the hollow of His hand, I 
could not but be grieved by noticing, in contrast, 
the card-playing and profanity which so much 
prevailed on board. From the captain down- 
wards, by the larger number, the name of the 
Lord was constantly taken in vain. 

Let me return to young Brooks. It appeared 
evident, from the commencement, that he could 
not survive the voyage. On this account, I be- 
came intensely anxious concerning his spiritual 
condition. I therefore sought an early opportu- 
nity to converse with him on the subject of reli- 
gion; and although I afterwards learned that 
years before he had professed conversion, yet I 
found that he had but very indistinct ideas of the 
requirements of the Gospel, and the depravity of 
the human heart. From time to time, I conversed 
and prayed with him, and read the Holy Scrip- 
tures to him. Upon one of these occasions, when 
we had been at sea nearly a month, I had a most 
pleasing interview with him. I could not but 
notice that his bodily strength was fast failing, 
and although I felt that he would never be any 
better in this world, I began to entertain a hope 
that, in the world to come, he would receive life 
everlasting. On this day, (July 20,) during the 



THE CONSOLATION OF RELIGION. 91 

forenoon, he called me to his berth, and expressed 
a wish that I would read to him, and converse and 
pray with him. I read the eleventh chapter of 
the Gospel by John, and endeavored to explain to 
him the great truths therein contained. I then 
poured out my soul to Grod on his behalf, when it 
seemed as if he could not contain himself any 
longer, and broke forth in strains of gratitude to 
God for His unbounded goodness. *'His mercy 
o me is very great," said he. '' Oh, how I thank 
God that my lot has been cast here with one who 
can pray for me, and direct me in the way ever- 
lasting!'' I then tried to commend him to the 
Lord, and I could not but feel that the Lord was 
with us. My friend seemed to have the spirit of 
prayer in his heart, and I can have no doubt but 
that it was said of him from that time, ^'Behold, 
he prayethi" He appeared to give himself unre- 
servedly to the Lord, and to trust for salvation in 
the atonement effected by Jesus Christ. How 
thankful I was that so great a privilege should be 
mine ! that the honor of pointing a fellow-man to 
the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of 
the world, should be conferred upon one so un- 
worthy ! I felt that if the Lord would only make 
me the agent to lead this young man to Christ, I 



92 HOPES OF REDEMPTION FOR THE DYING. 

sliould be more than amply compensated for all 
the deprivations which I was enduring. At the 
close of our interview^ he requested me to take 
the name and residence of his mother, that, should 
he not survive the voyage, and I should visit Bris- 
tol, where she lived, I might communicate to her 
the particulars of his last hours. 

On the following day, I found him still more 
reduced in strength, and e^ddently sinking quite 
rapidly. We endeavored to make him comfort- 
able; but such were the inconveniences under 
which we labored in the second cabin, that the 
task was futile. He apparently became fully 
reconciled to his condition. We believed that 
his sins were forgiven, and therefore felt to rejoice 
in the God of his salvation. His relation of ex- 
perience was so clear to my mind, as to leave no 
doubt but that he had previously, at the time of 
his professed conversion in Jersey, known some- 
thing of the renewing influences of the Holy 
Spirit. ^^But," said he, ^'I soon went back again 
into the world, in pursuit of its pleasures. Yet 
the good Lord has again brought me to see what 
He had done for me, to feel my ingratitude, and 
to seek forgiveness for my sins." Then he again 
broke forth in utterances of gratitude to God, that 



DEATH CLAIMS ITS YICTLM. 93 

his lot had been cast with me, and, rising up, 
implored that the blessing of God might rest upon 
me, my mission, and people. A more earnest 
prayer I do not remember ever to have heard. 
May the Lord grant an abundant answer ! Al- 
though I have but little confidence in death-bed 
repentances generally, there are, doubtless, some 
that are genuine, thus displaying the power of 
sovereign grace. 

A few days after, (July 27.) I found that my 
young friend was very near his end. During the 
day, when several were on the deck fishing, we 
were summoned to see him die. He appeared to 
be in the last struggle ; but it proved to be only 
the breaking of an abscess, the discharge of which 
was so rapid and copious as to threaten strangu- 
lation. After this, he rallied for a while, but soon 
swooned away, and, at about nine o'clock in the 
evening, breathed his last without a struggle. 

The utmost confusion now prevailed. An 
inventory was t-aken of his effects, and the ship's 
carpenter immediately commenced to sew up the 
body, together with the clothing which he wore 
when he died, in a piece of canvas. It was 
indeed a solemn sight to see one so prepared for 
burial in the mighty waters. 



94 A FUNERAL AT SEA. 

And now a funeral at seal Those who have 
never seen one must utterly fail to realize its sol- 
emnity. At eight o'clock on the following morn- 
ing, we were summoned to the burial. The body 
having been previously prepared, and a heavy 
weight attached to the feet, it was placed on a 
plank, and carried to the lee gangway, where the 
passengers and crew assembled. The captain 
performed the service, reading from the church 
prayer-book the form designated for use on such 
occasions; and then the body was committed to 
the deep, in the hope of a glorious resurrection. 
I felt sad at heart. The profanity of the captain 
and many others on board, card-playing on the 
very table whereon laid the form of my deceased 
friend but a few hours ago, not only showed me 
how depraved is the natural heart, but led me to 
pray more fervently that this dispensation of the 
providence of God might be sanctified to all. 

Apart from this melancholy incident, nothing 
of special interest occurred during the whole 
voyage. The time was long, and the passage 
tedious. The thirtieth of July was my last day 
at sea on my outward bound passage. This I 
endeavored to improve by presenting my object 
to the passengers, who generously encouraged me 



TERmNATION OF VOYAGE. 95 

with a subscription, wliich, although small, was 
an earnest of the success with which, by the 
blessing of God, I was destined to meet in Great 
Britain. On the afternoon of the twenty-ninth, 
after being at sea thirty -two days, and seeing no 
land, the captain told as we would see the light at 
HoUyhead at eleven o'clock that night. At ten 
o'clock, a man was sent aloft, and at one the light 
was cried. Next day, we took the pilot, and soon 
our journey was at an end. 



CHAPTEE Xn. 

ARRIVAL IN LIVERPOOL— CONSULTATION WITH MINIS- 
TERS—VISIT LONDON— LEAVE FOR BRISTOL— POST- 
PONEi^IENT OF EFFORT — ^PROCEED TO CHELTENHAM — 
THENCE TO BIR:^^NGHAM — COMMENCEMENT OF SUC- 
CESS. 

After thirty -six days spent at sea, it was my 

privilege, on July 31, to set my feet on dry land, 

and to thank the Lord for that rich goodness 

which had followed me all the voyage through. 

Having arrived in port at twelve o'clock on the 

night of the 30th, we did not land until eight 

on the following morning, when it was to view 

one of the largest commercial cities of Great 

Britain. As my object is not description, I shall 

not attempt a picture of Liverpool. Suffice it to 

say, that whilst it is one of the finest seaports of 

the island, one may see there the extremes of 

wealth and poverty, of virtue and vice. The 

immense number of shipping in the harbor, with 

the long and magnificent blocks of warehouses on 

the quays, impress a foreigner favorably as to the 

immense value of the commerce of England. 
96 



JOURNEY FROM LIVERPOOL TO LONDON. 97 

Whilst on the other hand; the open wickedness 
and profligacy visible on every side, cannot fail to 
pain the heart of every Christian philanthropist. 

My first business, after having provided myself 
with comfortable lodgings, was to seek out the 
Baptist clergymen, that I might represent my 
case, and take counsel with them as to the most 
desirable course to pursue. After consultation 
with the Eev. Messrs. James Lister, Charles M. 
Birrell, and Hugh S. Brown, the two former of 
them treated me with special kindness, and after 
examining my papers, advised me to proceed 
direct to London, that city being, as Mr. Birrell 
suggested, the ^^headquarters" of the empire. 

On the morning, therefore, of Saturday, the 
fourth of August, I started for the great metropo- 
lis, where I arrived in safety on the evening of 
the same day, after one of the most delightful 
rides I had ever enjoyed. The scenery in every 
direction was sublime. Is'ever had I beheld a 
country, for so long a distance, in so high a state 
of cultivation. On my arrival, I proceeded at 
once to a boarding-house kept by a deacon of the 
Xew Park Street Church, formerly under the pas- 
toral care of Drs. Gill and Eippon, and now under 

that of the celebrated Eev. Charles H. Spurgeon, 
5e 



98 ATTEND SERVICE AT NEW PARK STREET CHURCH. 

Eev. C. M. Birrell having given me a kind letter 
of introduction. ' Theie I found a home indeed. ' 

The following day, being the Sabbath, after the 
devotion of the morning, in which I was requested 
to read the 84th Psalm, and lead in prayer, I ac- 
cepted the invitation of my brother to accompany 
him to church, and listen to his pastor, the Kev, 
James Smith, Mr. Spurgeon's immediate prede- 
cessor. I felt that I could most sincerely say, 
with the sweet singer of Israel, ^^I was glad when 
they said unto me, Let us go up unto the house 
of the Lord," six weeks having elapsed since I 
had enjoyed an opportunity to attend upon the 
services of the sanctuary. In the morning, the 
pastor preached a most excellent discourse from 
the 26th verse of the 17th chapter of the Gospel 
by St. John — ^^I have declared unto them thy 
name, and will declare it : that the love wherewith 
thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in 
them." I listened again in the evening to the 
same preacher, who discoursed from the 31st verse 
of the 5th chapter of Judges — ^^So let all thine 
enemies perish, Lord ; but let them that love 
him be as the sun when he goeth forth in his 
might." This, I think, was one of the best ser- 
mons to which I ever listened. After the service, 



MEET SHNISTERING BRETHREN. 99 

the ordinance of the Lord's Sapper was adminis- 
tered, when I was introduced to the church as a 
Baptist minister from Philadelphia, and invited to 
a seat at the Lord's table. I could truly say that 
it was good to be there. '^ How amiable are thy 
tabernacles, O Lord of hosts !" 

My objeclr was now to make myself and my 
mission known to the leading; ministers of Lon- 
don. On Monday, therefore, I proceeded in quest 
of the Eev. William Groser, then the editor of the 
Baptist Magazine^ to whom I had brought letters 
of introduction. I was privileged to meet him, in 
company with other ministers, at the Missionary 
Eooms, in Moorgate Street. They examined my 
credentials, expressed themselves satisfied, but dis- 
couraged me from making any attempt to raise 
funds in London for the present, giving me, at the 
same time, the following certificate, and ad^dsed 
me to go into the country, and remain there until 
the fall. 

''33 Moorgate Street, London. 
AxLgusi 6, 1849. 

''We have examined Mr. Asher's documents, which are 
respectfully signed, and we hope that those philanthropical 
gentlemen who take a lively interest in the welfare of the 
colored people of the United States will deem this a case 
deserving of their aid. 



100 LEAVE LONDON FOR BRISTOL. 

''We are decidedly of the opinion that Mr. Asher had 
better postpone his calls in London for six or eight weeks. 

Joseph Angus, 
Frederick Trestrail, 
William Groser, 
Edward Steane, D. D. 

The principal reason of the advise contained in 
the recommendation was on account Of the preva- 
lence of the cholera in the city, in consequence of 
Avhich, a large number of the principal families 
had retired to the country. The ravages of this 
disease were at this time truly alarming. It was 
quite common to see the poorer classes of people 
carrying their dead upon their shoulders to the 
last resting-place. More than once I witnessed 
two men carrying a coffin to the graveyard, whilst 
perhaps the wife, daughter, or sister of the de- 
ceased was the only mourner! Verily, indeed, 
was I made to feel that ^4n the midst of life we 
are in death." 

Finding that I could not obtain a hearing from 
the people, I proceeded immediately to Bristol, 
hoping and praying for better success, and desiring 
to see Mrs. Brooks, the mother of the young man 
who had died on board the ''Saranak." I could 
not fail to be amazed at the antiquated appearance 
of the city. It was certainly the most so of any 



INTRODUCnOX TO BRISTOL. 101 

which T had visited in all my travels. My first 
call was upon the widowed mother of my deceased 
friend, who received me with great kindness and 
many fervent expressions of gratitude^ having 
been referred to me for the particulars of her 
son's death by the captain of the ship. Being 
introduced by her to the Eev. George H. Davis^ 
one of the leading Baptist ministers of the city^ I 
was ao^ain di3Coura2:ed bv his informino: me that 
there was but little hope of a favorable presenta- 
tion of my case. He was kind enough, however, 
to invite me to accompany him to a public meet- 
ing of the Bristol Society for the Promotion of 
Christianity among the Jews, and to offer to intro- 
duce me to the audience as one of the speakers. 
I willingly accepted the invitation, as I had not 
previously been permitted to address an English 
congregation. When, in the course of the eve- 
ning, my name was announced, I was received 
with almost deafening applause. I addressed the 
assembly for about fifteen minutes, and then took 
my seat amid the greatest enthusiasm. The die 
was cast. The Eev. Thomas Winter immediately 
espoused my cause, and, with the Eev. Evan Pro- 
bert, recommended me to visit Cheltenham and 
Birmingham, and return to Bristol early in Sep- 



102 VISIT CHELTENIIA3I AND BIRMINGHAM. 

tember^ promising me tliat the subject sboTild 
have due consideration. 

Acting upon the advice of these ministering 
brethren^ I proceeded to Cheltenham^ but only 
again to meet with disappointment^ as a mission- 
ary from Jamaica had but just leffc^ after making 
collections. I found that I could do no less than 
extend my journey to Birmingham without loss 
of time. I was assured^ however, by the Eev. Mr. 
Lewis, that at an early day he would inform me, 
and I should come and see what his people would 
do for me. There I was very kindly received by 
the Eev. Thomas Swan, to whom T had delivered 
a letter of introduction from his old and familiar 
friend, the late Eev. Dr. Belcher^ of Philadelphia. 
However, in common with ministering brethren 
in other places, he was apparently much perplexed 
as to the course it would be desirable for me to 
pursue, so many objects of Christian benevolence 
being already before the people. As the follow- 
ing day would be the Sabbath, he invited me to 
preach for him, which I readily assented to. 
After delivering an excellent sermon in the morn- 
ing, he read to his people Dr. Belcher's letter of 
introduction, stated the object of my mission, and 
Avarmly commended me to the sympathies and 



PREACH IN BIRMINGHA3I. 103 

benevolence of the friends generally, and gave 
notice that I wonld preach in the afternoon. I 
began to feel quite encouraged; and thanked the 
Lord that he was now opening a door for me. In 
the afternoon of the same day, I endeavored to 
preach from these words ; ^' If any of you lack 
wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all 
men liberally, and upbraideth not ; and it shall be 
given him." (James i. 5.) I felt that the Lord was 
with me of a truth. After the sermon, I pre- 
sented my case, which appeared to make a favor- 
able impression. From this time, and during all 
my stay in Birmingham, I was most cordially 
invited to partake of the hospitalities of the 
brethren. 

On the following Tuesday evening, I vv'as intro- 
duced into a gathering which was entirely new to 
me, and which I believe to be almost exclusively 
English, being a ^^ tea-party," to which an admis- 
sion fee was charged. It was called a Meeting of 
Thanksgiving to God for his blessing in enabling 
them to pay off a debt on a house at one of the 
village preaching stations. I was invited to ad- 
dress the meeting, and plead for the Shiloh 
Church, as the result of which I realized about 
fifteen dollars. 



104 KINDNESS OP REV, THOl^IAS SWAN. 

On Thursday evening, T again preached to the 
same congregation, using for my text the 13th 
verse of the 103d Psalm- — ^^Like as a father piti- 
eth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear 
Him'' — when I endeavored to impress my hearers 
with a sense of the paternal goodness of God. 
And surely His goodness was manifested to me, 
for I found, at the close of the week, by direct 
and indirect application, that T had collected about 
one hundred dollars. 

I cannot leave Birmingham without recording, 
with extreme thankfulness, the great kindness 
which I received from the Eev. Thomas Swan 
and family. He generously spent his time for 
two or three days in going with me from house to 
house, and, when unable to accompany me in per- 
son, sent his daughter to introduce me to the 
people. May the blessing of the Lord, which 
maketh rich, and addeth no sorrow therewith, 
ever rest upon him and his dear family! Also 
deacon John Walters, who kindly furnished me 
with lodging and the comforts of home during 
my stay in that city, and a host of kind friends, 
all of whom deserve my lasting gratitude. 

My next engagement was at King's Norton, 
where I preached a sermon founded on Zech. 



CLOSE MY WORK IN BIR3nNGHA3f. 105 

xii. 1, and collected a small sum ; and after visit- 
ing AstT70od Bank; and walking twenty miles, I 
again reached Birmingham. Here, still alive to 
my work, I called upon a wealthy Episcopalian, 
whose heart and purse I had prayed the Lord to 
open. He inquired if I was a preacher. I told 
him I tried to preach. He received me kindly, 
gave me ten dollars, and thanked me for calling 
upon him. He said any man who would preach 
Christ, he would help him, even if he was not of the 
same denomination as himself. Then, after a brief 
visit to Dudley, where I preached on the first Sab- 
bath in September, I returned to Birmingham, 
which city I left for Bristol on the following day, 
with a heart full of gratitude to God for all my 

travelling mercies, and hopeful of new success. 
5* 



CHAPTER Xm. 

RETURN TO BRISTOL— PREACH AT BROADMEAD— YISTT 
ASHTON— SUCCESS AND TREATMENT IN BRISTOL — 
PROCEED HENCE TO TROWBRIDGE, FROME, BATH, 
CHELTENHA3I, GLOUCESTER, AND OXFORD — IIVIPRES- 
SIONS OF OXFORD — RECEPTION IN LEAMINGTON — 
REV. OCTAYIUS WINSLOW. 

Oisr my return to Bristol^ finding tliat a City 
Missionary Meeting was in session at Hope Chapel; 
Clifton^ composed of the different denominations, 
I immediately started for that place, in order to 
lay my case before the ministers. They received 
me kindly, gave me a recommendation to their 
friends, and a certificate of the genuineness of my 
testimonials. This was signed by the Eev. Messrs. 
Thomas S. Crisp, George Wood, Thomas Porter, 
George H. Davis, John Jack, D. Thomas, Nathan- 
iel Haycroft, Thomas Winter, Evan Probert, and 
Henry I. Eoper. My stay in Bristol was pro- 
tracted to about four weeks. Meanwhile, I was 
quite successful in the city and vicinity, and en- 
joyed many delightful seasons with the people of 
106 



VISIT BRISTOL AND ASHTON. 107 

God. It was my privilege, soon after vnj arrival, 
to preach in the Broadmead Baptist Chapel, made 
notable by the eloquence of Robert Hall. I felt 
my un worthiness in attempting to address such a 
congregation ; but, leaning on the Lord's promise, 
*^ As thy day, so shall thy strength be/' I felt to 
be sustained by His gracious power, and enjoyed 
the service, and many of the saints seemed com- 
forted. I also preached at North Bradley, Ash- 
ton, at the King Street Chapel, and Pit Hay, 
besides addressing several public meetings and 
tea-parties. 

My visit to Ashton being invested with very 
much of personal interest, deserves more than a 
passing notice. My time there was principally 
spent with the Eev. Mr. Brown, a Presbyterian 
minister, for whom I preached twice on the Sab- 
bath. My text in the morning was the 24:th verse 
of the 31st Psalm — ^^Be of good courage, and He 
shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the 
Lord." In the evening, I selected a part of the 
37th verse of the 6th chapter of the Gospel by 
John — ''Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise 
cast out." " What a mercy," said one of the con- 
gregation, ^'that those words are in the Bible!" 
Blessed words, indeed, are they, from which we 



lOS ASHTON COURT. 

may derive comfort iu every time of perplexity 
and distress! 

TliroiTgh the kindness of one of the deacons of 
the Presbyterian church, I received an invitation 
to visit Ashton Court, the residence of the late 
Sir John Smith. This was esteemed to be one of 
the most splendid palaces in all England, and had 
then fallen into the possession of an aged widowed 
sister of Sir John's. Having accepted the invita- 
tion, I addressed a note to the lady, making an 
appointment, but found, to my regret, on fulfilling 
my engagement, that she was unable to be seen, 
on account of sickness. She, however, sent me a 
liberal subscription, with an invitation to go 
through the entire building, which I understood 
would occupy the whole day. I learned that the 
lady was a pious member of the church of Eng- 
land, and that most of her retinue of servants 
were members of different denominations. Here 
I found Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists, 
but all ^^one in Jesus Christ." One of the rooms 
of this elegant mansion was fitted up as a chapel, 
with a very large organ, and all the necessary fur- 
niture for a place of worship. Here it was the 
custom of her ladyship and servants to assemble 
morning and night for prayers. She herself would 



ASHTON COURT. 109 

announce tLe hymns to be sung, and tlie butler, 
Avho was a Baptist, would read the Scriptures, and 
sometimes lead in the devotions. Happy, indeed, 
must be such a family. Greatly did I rejoice to 
find such piety prevailing to some extent among 
the English aristocracy. I happily learned after- 
wards that this was by no means an isolated 
instance. 

One of the most pleasing sights of the morning 
was a view from a window of the magnificent 
dining-room, of a large herd of deer, consisting of 
between three and four hundred, skipping about, 
as the wise man says, ''like a roe upon the moun- 
tains." A glance at so beautiful a park, and such 
a scene of innocent life, I never expect to be- 
hold again. 

As I was able to spend only about three hours 
in the inspection of this mansion, I was forced to 
leave much unseen ; but I had seen sufficient to 
form strong impressions of its grandeur, and the 
lavish expenditure which had been incurred, year 
after year, for its support. Yet I could not refrain 
from thinking of the Saviour's declaration — '' In 
my Father's house are many mansions," and for a 
moment, in imagination, comparing it with those 



110 REPORT FROM PEACE CONGRESS. 

which my Lord had gone to prepare for all who 
love His appearing. 

Near the close of my visit in Bristol^ it was my 
privilege; in company with the Eev. Mr. Hay- 
croft; to attend a public meeting, at the King 
Street Chapel, for the reception of the delegates 
who had been appointed to the Peace Congress in 
Paris. Mr. Hay croft ]3resided over the large and 
respectable assembly, and called upon me to make 
a speech, introducing me as his '' friend and bro- 
ther/' a Baptist minister of the United States of 
America. ^ I at first declined to speak upon such 
an occasion ; but, when he quoted Lord Nelson 
at Trafalgar, ^^' England expects every man this 
day to do his duty," the tumultuous applause of 
the audience was irresistible. I endeavored to 
say a few words on the occasion, and, by the ad- 
vice of my friend, briefly introduced the object of 
my mission, which was received with favor. 

From an early part of my visit, I found Mr. 
Haycroft to be one of my firmest friends and best 
helpers. A young man of fine talent and com- 
manding ability, I could not fail to regard him as 
a worthy successor to the celebrated Eobert Hall; 
as pastor of the Broadmead Baptist Church. 

My stay in Bristol will be remembered by me 



KINDNESS OF FRIENDS AT BRISTOL. Ill 

as one of the most pleasant whicli I enjoyed in 
England. From ministers^ deacons, and churcli- 
members alike, I received almost unbounded kind- 
ness. Their hospitality was perfectly free, whilst 
upon several occasions I was invited to dine with 
select parties. Upon one of these, at the house of 
Mr. Wm. Warren, in company ^vith the Eev. Mr. 
Crisp, President of Bristol College ; Eev. Messrs. 
Haycroft and Davis, Dr. Chandler, Mr. Morcom, 
and some others, I had the happiness of meeting 
the widow of the late Eobert Hall, one evening, 
after preaching, w^hen she politely invited me to 
take tea with her. She is one of the most refined 
ladies in England — an introduction which I re- 
member with unfeigned interest. Thus was I 
treated in Bristol and throughout England gene- 
rally. When will America answer the appeal, 
'^ Am I not a man and a brother?" 

'* Am I not man^ by sin and sufferino; tried? 
Am I not man J for whom the Saviour died?" 

From Bristol I went to Trowbridge, Frome, 
Bath, and Cheltenham, designing to spend a few 
days in the latter place, where I received the cor- 
dial recommendations of the Eevs. W. G. Lewis 
and A. Morton Brown. Cheltenham is one of the 



112 CHELTENHAM AND GLOUCESTER. 

most popular watering-places in England. Besides 
my opportunities to collect donations, I had, also, 
numerous invitations to preach the Gospel. Being 
invited, on one occasion, to occupy the pulpit of 
the Eev. Mr. Lewis, I found convened, at the time 
appointed, one of the largest audiences I had yet 
addressed. I do not suppose that there could have 
been less than fifteen hundred or two thousand 
persons present. I felt that the Lord was again 
with me, and realized more than ever the force of 
His promise — ^'Lo! I am with you alway, even 
to the end of the world !" 

At Gloucester, I was privileged to see the monu- 
ment erected to the Bishop of Gloucester, who, 
very many years ago, was burnt for his adherence 
to the doctrines of Christ. This, with the ancient 
cathedral, appeared to be nearly all deserving 
public notice as objects of antiquity. 

Going thence by way of Cheltenham, in the 
course of a few hours, I found myself in the rich 
old city of Oxford, one of the English seats of 
classic learning, and made memorable by some of 
the religious annals of the past. The splendor of 
this city fairly surprised me. Piles of magnificent 
architecture filled the eye wheresoever it turned. 



MONmiENT AT OXFORD. 113 

Its colleges, of which there seemed to be about 
twenty, are beautiful specimens of the art of the 
architect and builder. But the most remarkable 
sight was in connection with the martyrdom of 
some bishops of olden time, being a splendid 
monument erected to their honor. I visited the 
room wherein they were tried and condemned, 
and the very spot where the stake stood to which 
they were bound, and where they were burned, 
that being marked by a cross in the pavement. 
The reformers to whom I refer are Eidley, Lati- 
mer, and Cranmer, who died bearing testimony to 
their Saviour, and whose names will ever occupy 
a high niche in the temple of Christian fame. I 
pray God that their memory and their works may 
be revered by the Christian world to the end of 
time! 

As it forms no part of my design, however, to 
attempt the task of description, I shall pass on 
with the brief review of my labors. On the eve- 
ning of my first Sabbath in Oxford, I was privi- 
leged to preach to a large congregation in the 
pulpit statedly occupied by the Eev. Mr. Bryan, 
but with very little comfort to myself, as I was in 
poor health, and not a little embarrassed by occu- 
pying such a position. The friends, however, 
e2 



114 REV. OCTAVIUS WINSLOW. 

insisted upon my preaching again on tlie follow- 
ing evening; which I did with far more freedom, 
and, I trust; profit to my hearers. The following 
Thursday evening, I endeavored to proclaim the 
truth, as it is in Jesus, at Abington, after which, I 
returned to Oxford, where I received some ^' ma- 
terial aid." Here, also, I was the recipient of 
much kindness at the hands of Joseph Warne, 
Esq., whom I found in every respect to be the 
Christian gentleman, and occupying the position 
of post-master of Oxford — a strong friend to the 
colored man. 

My next journey was to Leamington (a tedious 
ride of five or six hours by stage-coach), where I 
was most kindly and hospitably entertained by the 
Eev. Octavius Winslow. As this gentleman is so 
well known in America, through his works, I 
append the following graceful recommendation 
which he gave me to be presented to his friends : — 

* ' From a personal acquaintance with several of the min- 
isters of the United States, who have signed the Rev. Mr. 
Asher's testimonials, I have every confidence in him as a 
Christian minister ; and from the deeply interesting charac- 
ter of his church, I most cordially commend his case to the 
Christian benevolence of all who love the Lord Jesus 
Christ in sincerity. OcTAVius Winslow. 

Leamington^ Oct 27, 1849." 



LEAMINGTON. 115 

Mr. Winslow extended to me great kindness. 
He not only gave me the above recommendation 
and a donation, but procured me comfortable 
lodgings, defraying the expenses from his own 
purse. He also invited me to take a seat at his 
own table, whenever it might be convenient with 
my other arrangements. Although unable, on 
account of ill health, to yield to his urgent request 
and preach to his people on the Sabbath, I ad- 
dressed them in the prayer-meeting on the Mon- 
day evening following, and afterwards received 
from them a liberal contribution. I collected, in 
all, about sixty-five dollars. At Leamington, as 
in every other place, I was treated with the great- 
est kindness and that reception which Englishmen 
know so well how to extend to strangers. My 
indisposition was now such, that by the sugges- 
tion of a lady who felt a deep interest in my wel- 
fare and mission, I was induced to seek the advice 
of a celebrated physician, who had lately arrived 
from London, and retired to private life, but 
charged for giving advice, the money to pay 
which charges she gave me. After a thorough 
examination, he assured me that one of my lungs 
Avas inflamed, and that, therefore, it was my duty 
to refrain a while from public speaking, hinting, 



116 BRITISH AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY. 

alsO; at tlie probability that it might be necessary 
for me to return to my own conntry sooner than I 
had anticipated. Notwithstanding this advice, I 
attended, a day or two afterwards, two meetings 
of the British and Foreign Bible Society, which 
were held at Warwick, a few miles distant. I 
was able only, however, to speak briefly at one of 
them. Leaving Warwick and Leamington with 
all the dear friends I had made, and whom I may 
never see more in this world, I proceeded on my 
travels, having Birmingham first in view, in order 
today by a few days, and, if possible, recruit my 
almost wasted health, and pay a visit to kind 
friends there, who had invited me whenever op- 
jDortunity would allow, while I was in the coun- 
try, to spend a few days with them, especially if 
unwell ; to be sure to come home, as they styled 
it, and refresh myself, which I felt very thankful 
for, and always enjoyed these second benefits. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

RETURN TO BIR]VnNGHA>I — NEWS FROM H03IE— LIVER- 
POOL — KINDLY GREETINGS — ROCHDALE AND ASHTON- 
UNDER-TYNE, 

Conducted by the goodness of God, I was 
again permitted to see Birmingham and the dear 
family of Mr. John Walters, with whom I had 
resided on my previous visit. Under date, Nov. 1, 
I find the following paragraph in my diary, which 
I quote (although it was never designed for any 
other eyes than my own), as showing some of the 
peculiar thoughts and emotions which stirred my 
soul. "To-day, my health is a little improved. 
This may arise partly from the fact that I have 
received letters from home and from my dear 
church. This was the first time I had heard from 
home since my arrival in England. Oh, how 
cheering is the intelligence they convey respect- 
ing my family and the people of my charge. The 
good Lord has mercifully preserved them from 
the ravages of disease, for which I desire to be 

imceasinglv grateful. But the letters bring me, 

117 



118 NEWS FROM n03IE. ^ 

also, some sad news concerning some wliom I left 
betmd, when I came to this country — among 
others, a fellow-laborer in the Gospel^ the Eev. 
Thomas U. Allen, who is now asleep in Jesus. 
High expectations had been formed about him. 
"With many others, I had anticipated that, when 
he should have completed his course of study, he 
would shine as a bright star in our denomination. 
But alas ! alas ! whilst man may propose, God 
disposes. How unaccountable is this Providence ! 
Truly, ^^God moves in a mysterious way !" Could 
the dear brother have foreseen how near was his 
end, he certainly would not have discontinued 
preaching to enter college, but would rather have 
preached Christ with increased earnestness, and to 
to the last hour of his life would have spent his 
breath in warning sinners to repent. But he is 
gone, and his eloquent tongue lies silent in the 
grave. Xever, from henceforth, will I recom- 
mend a minister of Jesus Christ to C|uit the field 
of labor to obtain an education, however desirable 
such may appear. May God enable me to learn, 
from this dispensation, my own mortality! Oh, 
that my days may be altogether spent in the 
Lord's service, that my efforts may be abundantly 
blessed, and that my preaching may be accompa- 



RETURN TO LIVERPOOL. 119 

nied with the demonstration of the Spirit and with 
power f 

Having been informed at Leamington that, if I 
desired to collect anything in Liverpool during 
the winter, I must go immediately, I resolved to 
visit that city again without further delay. On 
my arrival, I found that the cholera had been 
doing its deadly work. Among others. I learned 
to my grie:^ that it had stricken down my friend 
and brother in Christ, Mr. Fishbourne, at whose 
house I had made my home during my first visit. 
This was the second of mj landlords who had 
fallen victims to that scourge. Here, again, I 
received marked kindness from the resident pas- 
tors of diflerent evancfelical denominations. I was 
fevored, also, with strong recommendations over 
the signatures of the Eev. Messrs. Charles M. Bir- 
rel, James Lister, Hugh S. Brown, John Stent, 
Hugh Crichton, William Graham, and Eev. Dr. 
Raffles. Although my success in this city was 
not so great as I had anticipated, yet I felt that I 
had received much from the Lord's stewards for 
which to be gratefuL 

After completing my work in Liverpool, I left 
for Manchester, with a letter of introduction to 
the Rev. Francis Tucker, who received me ^^^th 



120 EVANGELICAL ALLIANCE. 

mucli cordiality. Having heard of me in other 
parts of the kingdom^ he was anxious to see me. 
He invited me to attend a meeting of the Evan- 
gelical Alliance, at the residence of a wealthy 
brother, who was a member of his church, where, 
he assured me, I should meet with representatives 
from all the evangelical denominations of the city. 
I therefore accompanied him, when he very kindly 
introduced me to the brethren, and commended 
my cause to their Christian liberality. Being so- 
licited to address the meeting, I spoke at some 
length, and so far succeeded in making a favora- 
ble impression as to receive several invitations 
from gentlemen to call at their places of business 
next day; and those who did not, I took the 
liberty to invite myself. Previous, however, to 
commencing my active visitation, I received the 
following recommendation from the Eev. Mr. 
Tucker and the Eev. Dr. Halley: — 

''Manchester, Dec. 7, 1849. 
" No testimonials could be more satisfactory than those 
Mr. Asher brings with him. We very cordially commend 
his case to the Christians and iDhilanthropists of Manches- 
ter. Francis Tucker, 

Robert Halley.'' 



FIRST SABBATH IN MANCHESTER. 121 

Mr. Tucker took a deep interest in me and the 
object which I represented. After preaching on 
the Sabbath morning following, he introduced me 
to his congregation, which is reputed to be one of 
the most wealthy among the Baptists of England. 
He then read my testimonials, made some com- 
ments, and announced me to preach in the eve- 
ning. I filled the appointment with comfort to 
myself, and, I judge, to the satisfaction of the con- 
gregation, as I was urgently requested to preach 
again during the week. My subscription was 
headed by the gentleman at whose house I 
attended the meeting on my first arrival, W. E. 
Callender, Esq., with five pounds, followed by S. 
B. Hunt, Esq., of New York, and then by W. 

E , Esq., with whom I had previously met, 

under very different circumstances, a short time 
before, in Liverpool. 

I had been directed to call at a certain house, to 
solicit of the lady residing there a contribution. 
Doing so, I was accosted at the door by a gentle- 
man, who inquired my business. On communi- 
cating to him my errand, he replied that they 
never subscribed to such objects, and appeared to 
be absolutely disgusted at the very idea of build- 
ing churches. He treated me with such apparent 
6f 



122 CIRCUMSTANCES ALTER CASES. 

contempt, that I felt quite relieved when our inter- 
view was ended. I turned away discouraged and 
disheartened. Very much, therefore, to my sur- 
prise, this gentleman was almost the foremost of 
those who spoke with me after preaching my first 
sermon in Manchester. He immediately extended 
to me the hospitalities of his house ; but having 
already made other arrangements, I could not 
accept of his proffered kindness. Nothing less 
would satisfy him than my consent to dine with 
him on the following day. Upon arriving at his 
house (such as King Cotton's subjects usually 
occupy), he commenced to apologize for his ungen- 
tlemanly and unchristian conduct to me in Liver- 
pool, and, confessing with shame and confusion, 
besought my forgiveness, and that I would make 
no mention of the matter either to his wife or 
pastor. He then gave me a liberal subscription 
for my object, and a small sum for my private 
purse, besides a general invitation to partake of 
dinner or supper at his house at any time during 
my stay in Manchester. 

My Avelcome in that city was not confined to 
the Baptists. I preached in many of the places 
of Avorship occupied by other denominations of 
Christians, and addressed one of the largest Sab- 



REV. MR. BTJRCHELL. 123 

bath-schools I have ever seen, numbering about 
two thousand scholars ; and all my appeals met 
with a liberal response. My labors there were 
both pleasant and remunerative. The list of the 
names of my Manchester friends I still cherish as 
a treasure, recalling, even after this lapse of time, 
their noble generosity. 

From Manchester I went to Eochdale, w^here I 
also found favor. The Eev. Mr. Burchell re- 
ceived me in the most affectionate manner, and 
treated me with that attention which I so much 
needed, after having overworked myself during 
the previous four weeks spent in the former city. 
Upon my arrival in town, I engaged rooms at a 
hotel; but when I called upon Henry Kellsall, 
Esq., father-in-law of Samuel Peto, Esq., an M. P. 
for the city of London, he extended me an invita- 
tion to make his residence my home during all 
my stay in Eochdale. This I gladly accepted. 
An appointment had been made for me to preach 
on the following Sabbath evening, to Mr. Bur- 
chell's congregation, of which Mr. Kellsall's family 
were members ; but owing to a severe cold, which 
almost entirely destroyed my speech, I feared, at the 
time, that it would be impossible for me to fulfil 
my engagement. But, by the specially kind treat- 



124 CONTRIBUTIONS AT ROCHDALE. 

ment of Mrs. Kellsall; and as the result of the 
remedies used, I partially recovered my voice. The 
weather being exceedingly inclement, I was taken 
to the chapel in their carriage, and succeeded in 
preaching a short discourse to a very attentive 
audience. Afterwards, I so far recovered as to be 
able to attend every meeting held in Mr. Bur- 
chelPs chapel during my stay in Eochdale. From 
the friends universally, I received the utmost 
kindness, but from none so much as from my host 
and hostess, whose many favors I can never re- 
ciprocate. They not only entertained me hand- 
somely, and contributed with true liberality to 
the fund for the Shiloh Church, but presented me 
with many valua^ble articles of clothing for my 
family, which are still in use. During my stay 
with them, for about ten days, it fell to my lot to 
read the Scriptures, and lead in the family devo- 
tions, morning and evening, Mr. Kellsall remark- 
ing that whenever a minister of Christ lodged 
beneath his roof, he invariably gave him that 
portion of the work to perform, and he could not 
make me an exception. 

My next journey was to Ashton-under-Lyne, 
where, receiving but little pecuniary assistance, 
although a welcome reception, I remained but two 



CLOSING UP IN MANCHESTER. 125 

or three days, and then retraced my steps to 
Eochdale, as I had a standing invitation to stop 
at Mr. Kellsall's whenever I might again visit 
that place. 

A single circumstance connected with my mis- 
sion in Manchester ought not to be omitted in this 
chapter. Soon after my arrival there, I became 
acquainted with the Sheriff. He was deeply inte- 
rested in me and the cause which I represented. 
He said I must raise, in Manchester, five hundred 
dollars ; and he never relaxed his effort until that 
sum was reached, and in every possible way sought 
to further my interest by making individual ap- 
plication to his personal friends. No man in 
England rendered me more important aid than 
the Sheriff of Manchester. 



CHAPTER XV. 

BACUP — SINGULAR INTRODUCTION TO A BIBLE-CLASS — 
POOR LODGINGS — ASHINGTON, BLACKBURN, PRESTON, 
AND HEBDON BRIDGE — GRATIFYING SUCCESS AT SA- 
LENDINE NOOK. 

After spending a few more days in Eochdale, 
to pick up ^'the fragments whicli remained/' I 
wended my way to Bacup, about seven miles 
south of tlie former place. Not having an oppor- 
tunity to see the Rev. Mr. Dawson at his residence, 
and learning that he was with his Bible-class at 
the chapel; I proceeded thither. Arriving at the 
building, I entered and took a seat with the class. 
They had not heard of me ; and I presume that 
if an unitiated person had clandestinely found his 
way into a meeting of some secret society, there 
could not have been more excitement. I had 
intended to have sat quietly through the proceed- 
ings, and then introduce myself to the pastor, but 
this was rendered impossible. The minister, find- 
ing that he could not secure the attention of the 

members of his class under the circumstances, 
126 



SCENE IN A BIBLE-CLASS. 127 

then approached me, saying, ^' I perceive you are 
a stranger" — a plain truth, which I readily ac- 
knowledged. 

'' From what part of the world have you come ?" 
he inquired. 

I answered: *'From the United States of 
America. 

"Are you a fugitive slave?" 

"No." 

"May I ask, then, the object of your visit to 
this country?" 

After giving him the information which he 
sought, he determined not to pursue his usual 
course that evening, and requested me to address 
them. This I did for a short time, at the close 
of which he announced that I would preach in 
the chapel on the next Lord's day, which service 
I performed before a large and attentive congre- 
gation, and, I trust, not without good effect. In 
the afternoon -of the same day, I preached in the 
Ebenezer Baptist Chapel, and in the evening at 
Water-barne. The conoTcofations in these differ- 
ent places were about as large as any I had seen 
among the Baptists. I collected, in that vicinity, 
about one hundred dollars. 

One little incident in connection with my ar- 



128 SEEKING LODGINGS, 

rival at Bacup, trivial thongli it may appear^ I 
must not forbear to mention, especially as the 
party to wliom I refer afterwards emigrated to 
America. At the close of the meeting to which 
allusion has been made^ Mr. Dawson introduced 
me to a young man to conduct me to the Temper- 
ance Hotel, which was kept, I believe, by one of 
the members of his church. As the house was 
quite full, I was recommended to a lodging-house, 
where I again found that every room was pre- 
occupied, and thence to another, where a large 
number of colliers and other laborers were lodg- 
ing. Wg effected an entrance by going down a 
very dirty and narrow pair of steps. The interior 
presented the most disorderly domestic scene I 
had ever witnessed, and I therefore very speedily 
determined that, in the event of their consenting 
to accommodate me, to find some plausible excuse 
for not remaining. Upon my conductor inquiring 
whether I could be accommodated, the landlady 
replied in the affirmative. Thinking that, per- 
chance, I might be able to find some ground for 
objection, I made inquiries as to her charges, to 
which she answered, that depended upon what 
I wanted. She then inquired if I desired to 
occupy a bed alone, when I replied, '^ Yes ; for T 



CHEAP ENTERTAINMENT, 129 

do not suppose tTiat any of your boarders would 
care to lodge with me." "That/' said she, ''de- 
pends upon me, not upon them." Concluding to 
ask for the best fare, that in her prices I might 
find a pretext for remoying, I told her that I 
wished for a room in which I could be alone, a 
fire and light to burn throughout the night, my 
boots cleaned, and that I should not, on any ac- 
count, be disturbed in the morning until I was 
ready to arise. I anticipated that she would 
charge so large a sum, that I should feel free to 
decline paying the amount, and thus honorably 
withdraw to seek more comfortable lodgings else- 
where. She named, however, the sum of one 
shilling, and, therefore, much to my disappoint- 
ment, I felt under the necessity to remain for the 
night. 

Being wearied and foot-sore with travelling for 
so long a distance under a pelting rain, I availed 
myself of these lodgings, poor as they were, even 
with thankfulness. Without supper, I retired, 
and enjoyed a sweet night's rest. Truly, the Lord 
can make us both to lie down and sleep in safety. 
1 arose on the following morning with a strong 
desire for breakfast ; but, to my surprise, every- 
thing appeared to be more unsettled than on the 
6^ 



130 VISIT SABDEN. 

niglit before. I therefore paid my bill and left 
my hostess, who, about a week after, sold out and 
removed to the United States. I mention the 
above as one of the experiences of a traveller. 

From Bacnp I went to Ashington, and thenee 
to Sabden, to see a gentleman to whom I had 
been recommended by my friend Mr. Tucker, of 
Manchester. After walking about five miles in 
the rain, I arrived at his house in the twilight of 
the evening. Mr. Foster was absent. But when 
I had dried my clothing, I proceeded on my search 
about half a mile, and found him at his place of 
business, where I met with a gentleman standing 
outside. On approaching him, I inquired for Mr. 
Foster, when he announced that such was his 
name, and asked my business. I then presented 
a letter from Mr. Tucker, the handwriting of 
which he immediately recognized, and, requesting 
me to take his arm and receive shelter under his 
•umbrella, we proceeded to his residence. After 
engaging in conversation and partaking of tea, we 
attended a prayer-meeting, where I was intro- 
duced to Mr. Foster's pastor, with whom I formed 
a very pleasant acquaintance. Notwithstanding 
my extreme fatigue, I addressed the meeting, 
with much satisfaction to my own soul, and, I 



HOSPITALITY. 131 

trust, with profit to others. When the services 
were terminated, in company with the pastor, I 
returned to the residence of brother Foster, with 
whom we partook of supper, and engaged in 
prayer. We then conversed about Shiloh Bap- 
tist Church, for which Mr. Foster gave me twenty- 
five dollars, when, after gratefully receiving an 
in vita* ion to remain for the night under his roof, 
and thus obviate the necessity of walking to 
Bacnp in the thick rain and darkness, I gladly 
retired to rest. 

In the morning, after commending ourselves to 
the Lord, and partaking of the bounties of His 
providence, Mr. Foster sent his servant, with a 
horse and gig, to take me to the railroad station, 
ten miles distant. I then pursued my way to 
Blackburn, Preston, and Hebdon Bridge (where I 
stayed two or three days), and other places in the 
neighborhood. From Hebdon Bridge I went to 
Salendine Nook, where I arrived on Saturday 
evening, after travelling on foot for nearly one- 
half of the day, in one of the wildest storms in 
the month of March. The exposure and fatigue 
to which I had been subjected caused a severe 
attack of dyspepsia, rendering me unfit for any 
labor until the afternoon of the following day. 



132 REV. JOHN STOCK. 

Wearied and faint; I recommenced my work^ and 
called on the Eev. John Stocky the pastor of the 
Baptist Church in Salendine Nook, whom I found 
residing in a very neat dwelling, known as ^'Pat- 
mos Cotta2:e." Havins; informed him of the object 
of my \isit, and requested a collection for its aid, 
he expressed some doubts whether my request 
could be granted, but kindly offered to introduce 
me to one of his deacons, that we might consult 
with him and decide upon a course of action. As 
I most willingly acceded to his proposition, we 
immediately started upon our walk to Bottom 
Hall, about half a mile distant. Upon being intro- 
duced to deacon Shaw, I was received not only 
with the affability of a true Christian gentleman, 
but also with the frankness and heartiness so pe- 
culiar to the people of Yorkshire. He invited me 
to take up my temporary abode in his house, pro- 
mising me nothing, however, but food and lodging. 
After having engaged me to preach on the after- 
noon of the following day, should my health per- 
mit, and with the understanding that I was not to 
expect a collection, Mr. Stock returned to his 
home, leaving me under the hospitable roof of 
the excellent deacon. I found his family to con- 
sist of his wife and son — the latter appearing; to 



HOSPITABLE ENTERTAINMENT. 133 

be a confirmed bachelor. Being compxete^y ex- 
hausted and overcome with fatigue^ they employed 
every available means to insure my comfort. The 
son, whose room was very splendidly furnished, 
insisted upon my using it, rather than run any 
risk to my health by sleeping on a bed which had 
not been occupied during the winter. This was 
a favor which, I was informed by the deacon, was 
quite unusual. As they conducted a very exten- 
sive business in woollen manufacture, they were 
visited by gentlemen from all parts of the king- 
dom ; but never before, as I was assured by the 
father, had his son- relinquished the occupancy of 
his own room to a guest. Fully appreciating the 
kindness, after supper and commending each other 
to the care of our heavenly Father, I retired for 
the night; but notwithstanding all the rich com- 
forts by which I was surrounded, I enjoyed but 
little rest. My almost sleepless night was followed 
by the beautiful morning of the Sabbath. So 
much was I suffering from pain, that I not only 
doubted whether I should be able to preach in 
the afternoon, but also feared that I was about to 
have a severe sickness. Nevertheless, I deter- 
mined to attend church and listen to Mr. Stock. 
Mrs. Shaw, who was the deacon's second wife, 



134 MRS. SHAW DESIRES TO HEAR ME PREACH. 

was a member of tlie Established Churchy and 
reputed to be quite wealthy. Although the com- 
panion of an officer of the Baptist churchy she had 
never accompanied her husband to public worship^ 
and had never listened to the preaching of a Bap- 
tist minister. She was evidently unacquainted 
with the Faith, Principles^ and Practices of the 
denomination ; and, intimating that she regarded 
the Baptists as a very singular and prejudiced 
sect; asked me many questions concerning them. 
As Mrs. Shaw expressed a strong desire to hear 
me preach, notwithstanding that it was uncertain 
that I should be sufficiently recovered to fulnl my 
engagement; I recommended her to prepare her- 
self and Avalk with us to the chapel, about half a 
mile distant. She remarked, however, that she 
had some hesitation in going, as, for more than 
two years that she had lived with the deacon, ho 
had never once extended an invitation to her to 
accompany him. This information induced me 
to urge her very strongly to go in the afternoon, 
and thus surprise her husband. The deacon and 
myself then walked to the chapel, hoping to en- 
joy a delightful opportunity to sit together in a 
heavenly place — the place where God's honor de- 
licrhts to dwell. 



THE CHAPEL. 135 

Whilst on our way, deacon Shaw inqun^ed of 
me what I was in the habit of preaching — whether 
I preached the Gospel or the Law — Jesus Christ 
or good works; ''for/' said he, ''the people here 
live on the Gospel." Upon hearing my repl}^, he 
added, "Well, man, if you preach Christ to us, 
you may, perhaps, get a little something." 

I have said that it was a pleasant morning ; but 
three or four inches of snow (the largest quantity 
I saw in Europe at one time) covered the ground, 
and made the condition of the roads unfavorable 
to the assembling of a large congregation, espe- 
cially as the majority of the attendants upon pub- 
lic worship must travel even to the distance of 
six or eight miles. Having, however, arrived at 
the chapel (a fine-looking and substantial build- 
ing), and seeing the horses and vehicles which 
almost surrounded it, I was soon satisfied that 
there would be no lack of a congregation. I was 
soon introduced into the basement, where there 
were two large rooms, furnished with tables, 
chairs, &c. In one of them was placed a table, 
apparently about fifty feet long, covered with 
linen, plates, glass, cutlery, and all other things 
necessary, that the people might partake of a meal 
with comfort, the provision for which was brought 



J 36 CHAPEL ACC03IAI0DATI0XS. 

in their baskets. This I fbiincl to be an arrange- 
ment for dinner^ to which friends AYere invited so 
long as vacant seats remained^ and made neces- 
sary by the long distance of the residence of 
many of the vrorshippers^ and the fact that there 
was an intermission between the morning: and 
afternoon services of only one hour. 

Another room, nearly equal in size to the one 
already mentioned^ was appropriated as a sitting 
and smoking-room. There I saw a number of 
ladies thus enjoying themselves after dinner — a 
custom which I did not observe elsewhere in 
England, although I doubt not that it was more 
extensively observed. 

At the time for morning service, we assembled 
ourselves together^ with others, in the chapel, and 
listened to an interesting and deeply impressive 
sermon, preached by the pastor, from the text 
found in the Epistle to the Epheslans iii. 15 — '' Of 
whom the whole family in heaven and earth are 
named.'' At the close of the discourse, I was 
announced to preach at one o'clock. The bene- 
diction having been pronounced, most of the con- 
gregation adjourned to the basement — some to 
eat, some to talk, and others to smoke. Being 
introduced to many of the brethren, I briefly ex- 



PREACH AT 5ALEXDINE NOOK. 137 

plained the nature of the object of mv mission, 
and left tliem to discuss its merits. 

The hour of the afternoon service having: ar- 
rived, to the great surprise of her friends and all 
present, Mrs. Shaw was seen to enter the family 
pew. In fact, the circumstance was so unexpected 
by all, that it was difficult to determine whether 
my presence in the pulpit, or that of the deacon's 
wife in the pew, created the greatest sensation. I 
endeavored to preach from the prayer of Jabez — 
1 Chron. iv. 10 — "Oh, that thou wouldst bless 
me indeed!'' Having unusual fi-eedom, I could 
not but feel that, if ever I was sustained by the 
. Holy Spirit in the delivery of my message, I most 
certainly was on that afternoon, in the Baptist 
Chapel, at Salendine Nook. After preaching, I 
stated to the audience that as I had not been pro- 
mised any collection, therefore I did not expect it, 
but I would retire to the basement, where I should 
be grateful to receive any donations for ^^ Shiloh.'' 
Many of the congregation followed, some to extend 
Christian salutation, and invite me to visit their 
homes, and others to hand me their subscriptions. 
The pecuniary result of that afternoon's labor was 
altogether about one hundred dollars. 

Bv special request, I preached again, in the 
f2 



138 REFLECTIONS Of DEACON SHAW. 

evening, about two miles distant from the chapel, 
being accompanied on foot to the place of meeting 
by the deacon and his family, including Mrs. 
Shaw. There we enjoyed another refreshing sea- 
son. Upon our return, brother Shaw could not 
refrain expressing his delight that his wife had 
been attending Baptist church that day, and even 
intimated that he regarded me as endowed with 
some extraordinary gift, remarking, at the same 
time, that he could not understand how it was 
that, whilst there had been many good preachers 
constantly coming to their church, which was one 
of the strongest in Yorkshire, his wife had never 
manifested the least disposition to hear one of 
them. ^^But with you," said he, ^^she is com- 
pletely carried away." He then added, '^I did 
not think that I should give you anything ; but 
you have loosened my purse-strings ; and, what is 
more, I have not known so much money to be 
contributed by our people for any object without 
previous notice. 

During the week, I again preached to the same 
congregation, and received many cordial invita- 
tions to spend a few weeks with them ; but, being 
anxious to prosecute my work to a close, the more 
especially as I was so much hindered in the com- 



3ms. SHAW's KINDNESS. 139 

mencement, I reluctantly declined the proffered 
kindness. Whilst, however, I remained, I used 
my utmost endeavors to counsel and instruct Mrs. 
Shaw, advising, her^ also, to attend the same place 
of worship as her husband, and hear Mr. Stock, 
whenever it was convenient. This latter advice 
she promised to adopt. 

As the time for my departure from a family 
and neighborhood where I had enjoyed many pre- 
cious seasons, and received so much kindness, ar- 
rived, my dear friends expressed their regrets that 
we must part after so short an acquaintance. My 
preparations being made, my kind hostess pre- 
sented me with a number of books and other 
articles, and a guinea for my private purse, en- 
joining upon me to remember her especially at 
the Throne of Grace. She earnestly invited me, 
also, to visit them again, and promised a comfort- 
able home and a guinea for my own use whenever 
I could make it convenient to call upon them. I 
thought, at the time, that I might be able to see 
my friends once more before^ I left the country; 
but other engagements prevented me from enjoy- 
ing so great a privilege. On the afternoon when 
I left, Mrs. Shaw conveyed me in her carriage, a 
distance of eight miles, to the railroad station, 



140 DEPARTURE FROM SALENDINE NOOK. 

where I took leave of her^ probably to see ber no 
more in tbis world. 

In tbe course of two or tbree weeks afterwards, 
I received a letter from brotber Stock, in wbicb 
be informed me of tbe baptism of Mrs. Sbaw, and 
tbat sbe bad connected berseif witb tbe Baptist 
cburcb. He also expressed bis kind regards 
towards me, bis best wisbes for my success, and 
tbe bope tbat tbe providence of God would once 
more permit me to visit Salendine Nook, I 
tbougbt, truly, tbat God batb no respect to per- 
sons, and tbat, if I was faitbful to Him, He would 
bless my labors amongst wbite as well as amongst 
colored persons. Surely, it is not by migbt nor 
by power, but tbe Spirit of tbe Lord^ tbat tbis 
work is accomplisbed. 



CHAPTEE XVI. 

HALIFAX — BRADFORD — LEEDS — IMPORTANT DOCOIENT — 
HLTJL — SHEFFIELD — NOTTINGHAM — LEICESTER. 

My next trip ^vas to Halifax^ where T called on 
the Eev. Mr. W — — , who promised to lay the 
case of the Shiloh Ghnrch before his deacons^ and 
invited me to preach for him on some evening 
daring the following week. To make the most of 
my timC; I visited Bradford, designing to return to 
Halifax. Whilst there, I received a note from Mr. 
AV., informing me that it was deemed nnadvisa- 
ble-for me to return, as the church made its own 
collections, and then voted appropriations to the 
different objects of Christian benevolence, so far 
as their funds would allow. He closed with a 
request for my address in London, that he might 
forward me a donation ; but I never again heard 
from him. 

My reception in Bradford was a true exemplifi- 
cation of Christian courtesy. My cause was very 
kindly commended by the faculty of Horton Col- 
lege (Rev. Dr. Acworth, President\ where I was 

141 



142 FRIENDS IN BRADFORD. 

invited to dine witli the students as often as I 
would. I preached in both of the Baptist 
churches^ and also lectured for the Independents 
at East Parade. At the latter place^ a lady inti- 
mated to me her pleasure when seeing me enter 
the building, upon the occasion of a prayer-meet- 
ing, hoping that I was about to join the church, 
and her subsequent disaj^pointment when she 
ascertained that her hopes were not to be realized. 
She desired that there should be at least one col- 
ored member in the church. I received from her 
a very liberal donation for the Shiloh Church. 

My success in Bradford was much greater than 
I had anticipated, the amount collected being 
nearly three hundred dollars. Here, as elsewhere, 
I found many who were true friends ; but all the 
time that I was in that country — I may say ever 
since I have been in the world — the Lord has 
never failed to raise up friends for me. He has 
ever been better to me than my fears or deserts. 
But in England I was especially led to contrast 
the difierence of treatment which a colored man 
receives when travelling in that country and in 
America. Even Americans themselves seem not 
only to forget their wicked and foolish prejudices 
when in England, but appear to be ashamed to 



BAPTIST ixsTiTmoys. 143 

acknowledge that it ever existed in their minds. 
Upon the occasion of a public meeting, in which 
I had been invited and requested to speak, I met 
with a well-known doctor of divinity from the 
city of Xew York. When I addressed the meet- 
ing. I could not refrain from making the observa- 
tion that, although the reverend gentleman and 
m J self had o3:en been together in religious meet- 
ings, that was the first time that I had ever met 
with him upon ministerial equality. Being in- 
quired of if such was the fact, he immediately 
confessed its truthfulness and wickedness, and 
professed his determination to repent. 

I recall wdth great pleasure the attention which 
I received from the faculty and students of the 
institutions of learning connected with the Baptist 
denominations in Bristol, Bradford, and London, 
and was gratified, most of all, by being assured 
of the fact that a promising young man of color, 
whose piety and talents were unquestionable, 
would be received into either of those colleges on 
equal terms with other students, upon my recom- 
mendation. 

From Bradford I went to Leeds, where I found 
that the Baptists were building a chapel. This, 
it was thought, would be against my success. 



144 IMPORTANT DOCUMENT. 

But oelieving tliat my cause was the Lord's^ and 
that the silver, and gold, and people are His, I 
determined not to be discouraged, but to prose- 
cute diligently my master's business. Going forth 
in His strength, I was not disappointed. The 
Lord prospered my labors to that extent, that in 
Leeds and its immediate vicinity I collected about 
two hundred and fifty dollars. 

I close this chapter with the insertion of the 
following address of the Baptists of Yorkshire to 
their brethren of the United States. It gives the 
sentiments not only of the churches by which it 
was immediately sent, but, in fact, of all the Chris- 
tians of England: — 

"Dear Brethren: 

"A colored brother and minister of Christ from 
amongst you, Mr. Jeremiah Asher, has visited us to solicit 
contributions towards discharging the debt on his chapel. 
Cordially responding to your liiglily rezpectahle recom- 
mendation, and to the claims of his case, we have contrib- 
uted, as we trust you will think, liberally towards it. We 
feel constrained, however, to embrace this opportunity of 
remonstrating with you, our brethren in Christ, on the 
strange inconsistency^ of the treatment which our and your 
colored brethren receive at your hands, and the strange 
difference between their treatment here in England, and in 
Vae free States of the Union. We have listened with inte- 
rest to his preaching, and he has been gladly welcomed 



LETTER FROM THE BAPTISTS IN YORKSHIRE. 145 

everjTwhere, both to our pulpits and to the firesides of 
every class of society. We think that you, brethren, must 
agree with us that we owe a debt to our colored brethren 
which it is not only our duty, but highly to our honor to 
discharge ; and that in no way can we better discharge it 
than by showing to them our love as brethren in Christ, 
and by avoiding every word or deed, and even suppressing 
every feeling, which could make them painfully sensible of 
the grievous wrong which our progenitors have done to 
them. 

''Brethren, we are confident that you must, as Chris- 
tians, often feel that you bring no small guilt on your con- 
sciences in allowing yourselves to concur with the children 
of this world in keeping your most injured brethren in 
Christ at so great a social distance, and in so depressed a 
condition. If the world can, without compunction, refuse 
them equal social intercourse, and practically hold them 
down to SERVITUDE, though not in slavery, it must violate, 
brethren, your conscience and every Christian feeling, to 
do likewise. 

''Brethren, we earnestly exhort you to break through 
these merely conventional yet sinful habits, and to honor 
your Master by your treatment of His servants. Be not 
ashamed of the brethren of Christ because the world is so, 
but let your light on this subject shine before men worthily 
of your profession. Happily, indeed, should we be to see 
our Baptist brethren foremost in America, not only in the 
emancipation of the colored people from personal slavery, 
but in the emancipation of free men of color from social 
degradation, in educating them and elevating them by 
every possible expedient; and foremost, too, in emanci- 
7g 



146 LETTER FROM THE BAPTISTS IN YORKSHIRE. 

pating themselves from a species of pride so irrational, so 
vulgar, and so unchristian as that of pride in difference 
of color. 

' ' Although, brethren, you assign your liberality to 
voluntary emigrants from Europe as the cause of your 
inability to aid Mr. Asher's case, we must beg leave to re- 
mind you of two things : first, that colored men now in 
America are in the land of their hirtJi^ therefore in their 
Tiome^ and that 'charity should begin at home;' and next, 
that their color attests that they are the children of com- 
pulsory emigration, whose ancestors were dragged by yours 
from their fatherland, and that your fathers' heavy debt to 
those unhappy emigrants it is surely a sacred duty on your 
part to repay to their children. 

''We trust, therefore, that our heartily expressed sym- 
pathy with Mr. Asher will not induce you to send to us 
other colored brethren on a similar errand. It would 
assuredly lead to disappointment. We hope, on the con- 
trary, it will only stimulate you to contribute yourselves in 
aid of your colored feUow-countrymans spiritual wants, 
and also to elevate yourselves ' to the measure of the sta- 
ture of the fulness of Christ,' by elevating these. His 
brethren and your brethren, to your own social standing." 

Before bidding a final adieu to Yorkshire, I 
must refer to a singular circumstance which oc- 
curred during my short sojourn in Wakefield. A 
gentleman with w^hom I was well acquainted, and 
and who was formerly a member of the Church of 
England, having some misunderstanding with a 



THE slave's friend. 147 

lady of the same church, was guilty of making 
some disreputable statements concerning her. She 
thereupon commenced legal proceedings against 
him, and carried her case. As a part of his 
penalty, he was compelled to walk the broad aisle 
of the church in the presence of the whole congre- 
gation, with a sheet over his head, and then con- 
fess his wrong. This he was obliged to do by the 
ci\'il law, although he had long before left the 
church, and united with the Baptists. 

Aft^r collecting about fifty dollars in Mansfield, 
I proceeded to Hull, the birthplace of William 
Wilberforce, the slave's friend. I saw there the 
splendid monument which had been erected to his 
memory by the friends and advocates of freedom 
in Great Britain. When I stood in the room in 
which he was born, I felt that the place was holy 
ground, especially when I recalled the burning 
eloquence, the indefatigable labors, and untiring 
zeal with which he ever advocated the cause of 
the oppressed. I could not but silently lift my 
heart in prayer to Almighty God, that He would 
be pleased to raise up others to complete the work 
that His servants, who now sleep in death, had 
commenced, and, \mh unwavering love for the 
bondman, had prosecuted. 



148 SHEFFIELD. 

I found tlie Baptist interest in Hull to be quite 
feeble. Altbougb I spent but three or four days 
with the friends in that city, I preached for them, 
attended one or two social gatherings, and col- 
lected about thirty dollars. 

As Hull was not only the birthplace, but the 
final resting-place of William Wilberforce, I found 
that his influence was strongly felt throughout the 
community. The people were thoroughly impreg- 
nated with the principle of liberty to the slave. 
Our sentiments, therefore, being in full accord- 
ance, I was received and treated by the citizens 
with the utmost cordiality. 

From Hull, my journey extended to Shef&eld, 
which is noted, the Avide world over, for its exten- 
sive manufacturing of cutlery. The people of 
that city I found to be very kind and hospitable 
to strangers. By request, I preached in their 
chapels, and was made to feel quite at home, every- 
thing necessary being provided for my comfort. 
From both ministers and people, I did not receive 
{ in all England a warmer reception. God bless 
the people of Shef&eld for what they did for little 
'^Shiloh." ! After staying there about ten days, I 
left for Nottingham, the residence of Eev. J. G. 
Pike, author of ^'Persuasives to Early Piety,'^ 



N0TTINGHA3I. 149 

and pastor of tlie Free-will Baptist Church. He 
received me most cordially, gave me a subscrip- 
tion, and invited me to preach in his chapel. My 
text upon that occasion was from John vi. 87 — 
''Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast 
out.'' I think that my discourse was rather 
too Calvinistic for the taste of the congregation, 
for they are not, by any means, admirers of John 
Calvin. There are two regular Baptist churches 
in the same place, one being under the pastoral 
care of the Eev. James Edwards, the other under 
that of the Eev. J. A. Baynes, who is esteemed to 
be one of the most popular men in Lancashire ; 
but I found the churches to be comparatively 
weak interests. Both of the brethren united in 
aiding me, and I preached in both of their chapels. 
I collected in that city about forty dollars. Being 
anxious to visit as many other places as possible 
before leaving for home, I remained but a very 
short time, and then proceeded to Leicester, where 
the Eev. Eobert Hall had spent the former part 
of his ministerial life. The present incumbent is 
the Eev. Mr. Mursell, whose talent and popularity 
are well known throughout the kingdom. Here, 
again, I was received with open hearts and doors, 
invited to take of the hospitalities of the people, 



150 SOCIAL EQUALITY. 

and to preach in the Baptist pulpit. A family 
named Gould showed me especial kindness whilst 
I remained in the city. Mr. Gould gave me a 
considerable quantity of clothing for myself and 
family, as testimonials of his Christian regard for 
me. 

Upon one afternoon^ Mrs. Gould accompanied 
me to see a gentleman, with the view of solicit- 
ing a subscription. When we started, she ex- 
pressed a desire to take my arm, saying that she 
could walk more comfortably. I apologized for 
not having previously extended that courtesy, 
on the plea that in my own cou.ntry I was not 
accustomed to walk on the streets with white 
ladieS; and therefore was not forward to make the 
approach to her. She remarked that, in her case, 
no apology was necessary, as she regarded it as 
great an honor to walk with me as with any other 
gentleman. Arm in arm, we walked together 
through the streets of Leicester. Nor was this 
an isolated case of the same nature. In Manches- 
ter, Birmingham^ London, and other places, I was 
received on equal terms with other gentlemen, 
irrespective of my complexion. I collected, in 
Leicester, about one hundred dollars. 



CHAPTER XYII. 

A PLEASANT -WEEK IN N0IITHA3IPT0N— A HAPPY CON- 
VERSION — RETURN TO LONDON — INTRODUCTIONS. 

After leaving Yorkshire; I went to Northamp- 
ton to pay a visit to the Eev. J. T. Brown. Find- 
ing that he was out of town on my arrival; I took 
lodgings in a hotel in Bridge Street, On my 
journey thither from Hull; I lost a small bag, 
which; among other articles; contained a pair of 
steel-framed spectacles that I had been under the 
necessity of using almost constantly. I was 
obliged; therefore; to seek for another pair. Find- 
ing a jewelry-storC; after a very little search; I 
entered to make my purchase. The business was 
conducted by two sisters. On seeing me, after 
other customers had been served; the eldest sister 
inquired whether I came from the East Indies. 
Telling her; in reply; whence I camC; she expressed 
surprise; and remarked that she thought that the 
people were of a different complexion to mine. 
After enlightening her on this point; she asked if 

Americans generally spoke the English language. 

151 



152 ACQUAINTANCE AT NORTHAMPTON. 

I assured her that the English was my vernacular 
tongue, and knew no other. Then she proceeded 
to make many other inquiries as to the object of 
my visit, my profession, &c. I told her that I was 
a Baptist minister, and that my object was to 
raise means to assist the church of which I was 
pastor. She then offered to introduce me to Mr. 
Brown on the following day. When the younger 
sister entered the store, she was informed of the 
conversation which had transpired, and both 
agreed that, as I had engaged lodging only, to 
invite me to take all my meals with them, when 
not otherwise engaged, which invitation I very 
gladly accepted, providing that Mr. Brown should 
not make different arrangements. 

On the following morning, one of the ladies 
conducted me to see the Baptist minister, remark- 
ing, on the way, that she imagined that Mr. Brown 
would be surprised to see her, as she did not at- 
tend his meeting, being a Methodist, although her 
father, for many years previous to his death, was 
a deacon, and her mother a prominent working- 
member of the Baptist church. Having arrived at 
Mr. Brown's residence, I sent him my letter of in- 
troduction, which speedily brought him to welcome 
us in person. My lady friend excused herself for 



RET. ym. BROWN. 153 

calling on Saturday; mth the plea that she was 
desirous of ascertaining whether I should preach 
on the Sabbath. After expressing his pleasure 
in seeing her. Mr, Brown requested her to make 
known among her friends that I would preach in 
his chapel on the following afternoon. Then, 
wishing to be kindly remembered to her sister, 
who was an attendant on his ministry, they sepa- 
rated. 

After her departure, Mr. Brown inquired in 
what way I became acc|uainted with the family. 
When I related the circumstances, he regarded 
them as being cjuite providential. He then gave 
me some account of the family history. Their 
parents were wealthy, and had been among the 
most liberal supporters of the cause of Christ, 
both at home and abroad. Since their decease, 
the elder sister had become connected with the 
Methodist church ; while the younger, who was 
esfeemed to be one of the most amiable and ac- 
complished ladies in ^STorthampton, continued to 
attend the Baptist chapel. Notwithstanding their 
wealth, he regarded it as almost impossible to 
obtain a subscription from them for any purpose ; 
and, while he persuaded me to urge my claim 
very strongly, suggested that; in case of success^ I 



154 SABBATH IN NORTHAIMPTON. 

would be the first man who had received a sub- 
scription in that house since the death of the 
father. 

We then made our arrangements for the follow- 
ing day. On the Sabbath morning, as agreed, I 
attended service at the Baptist chapel, and listened 
to a ver J impressive discourse on ^^ The Meekness 
of Christ;" from Eev. Mr. Brown, I preached in 
the same place in the afternoon, and took a col- 
lection. In the evening, I preached in the house 
once occupied by the renowned Dr. Doddridge. 
To me, it was a delightful day. I enjoyed some 
degree of liberty at both services, and felt it to be 
a great honor to stand where men of world-wide 
renown had before preached Jesus Christ to poor 
sinners. 

On Monday morning, I again called on my 
friends, and, soliciting a donation, received from 
them ten dollars, with a renewed offer of my hos- 
pitality during my sojourn in the city. Mr. 
Brown congratulated me upon my success, and 
expressed the opinion that, after that, I need not 
despair of succeeding anywhere. Observing that 
Miss Martha, the j^ounger of the two sisters, was 
apparently quite thoughtful on the subject of 
religion, I availed myself of every convenient 



A HAPPY CONVERSION. 155 

opportunity to converse and pray with her^ trust- 
ing in the Lord to accompany with His blessings 
the word spoken. Many an hour have I spent 
with Miss Martha in endeavoring to persuade her 
to repent. She was most amiable in her deport- 
ment^ and in every respect the lady; yet one 
thing she lacked. 

My stay in Northampton was one of the most 
agreeable which I had known in England, although 
it only lasted one week, being necessarily thus 
brief, as I was about bringing my labors in that 
country to a termination. I left with great reluc- 
tance, feeling that, if I could stay, the Lord would 
give me souls for my hire. A few weeks after 
my leaving, I received a note from Mr. Brown, 
saying that the Lord had been pleased to make 
me the instrument of Miss Martha's conversion. 
That was soon followed by a letter from the sister 
herself, giving an account of her conversion, bap- 
tism, and love to the Saviour, also expressing her 
warmest gratitude for the interest which I had 
manifested in her spiritual welfare. That was one 
of the most encouraging epistles I ever received. 
Shortly after, and just before my leaving the 
country, I received another letter from the same 
hand, full of encouragement to me to persevere in 



156 RETURN TO LONDON, 

the great and glorious work of preacMng Christ 
to poor sinners. Surely the Lord has been good 
and gracious in blessing my feeble effbrtS; for I 
know that my labors have not been in vain. For 
this and all succesS; I desire to hnmble myself as 
I acknowledge His mighty power, and to be un- 
feignedly thankful. 

My arrival in the city of London occurred 
about the 20th of April, 1850. My ears were 
very speedily greeted with the mournful intelli- 
gence of the decease of my good brother, Mark 
Moore, who had for a long time the reputation of 
keeping a good Baptist tavern in the great metro- 
polis of the world. This made the second of my 
landlords who had been removed by the hand of 
death during my short stay in the country, and 
both by that awful scourge — cholera. This latter 
brother was taken with the disease on the day 
that I left London on my previous visit for Bir- 
mingham. On the evening of that day, he was a 
corpse. The Eev. C. M. Birrell, of Liverpool, 
gave me a kind letter of introduction to Mr. 
Moore, stating my object, and expressing the hope 
that I should be cordially treated. I was, there- 
fore, very kindly entertained for about ten dollars 
a week — a very reasonable sum for board and 



FIRST SUBSCRIPTION. 157 

lodg-inor in London. I here ascertained that the 
Rev. Dr. Cushman^ whose polished eloquence is 
so well known in this country, had married their 
daughter. 

Upon my first visit to London, my pecuniary 
means were almost entirely exhausted. Feehng, 
therefore, that I must prosecute my work with 
the greatest diligence, I called upon Mr. John 
Haddon, the well-known Baptist printer, and a 
member of the Eev. John Howard Hinton's 
church. After a full examination of my docu- 
ments, he expressed the opinion that the case, 
however deserving and truthful it might be, had 
no strong claim upon British Christians ; further- 
more, that the money ought to be raised in Phila- 
delphia, and that American churches were far 
more able than the English to assist their colered 
brethren. He very kindly agreed, however, to 
publish some circulars, at an expense of fifteen 
dollars, and wait for the payment until I had suc- 
ceeded in raising the amount. He then sent me 
to B. W. Gurney, Esq., who contributed ten dol- 
lars. That was the first donation which I received 
in England; and I cannot but believe that the 
influence of his name, not only in London, but 



158 PAY FOR PRINTING. 

throughout England, had very much to do with 
my subsequent success. 

Calling upon Mr. Haddon a short time after my 
return, on my second visit to London, I was ena- 
bled to show him my subscription-book, when he 
expressed his surprise and pleasure at the amount 
collected. Having next paid his bill for printing, 
he greatly assisted me by his advice as to the best 
way to proceed in London, which advice I thank- 
fully received and adopted ; and, whenever he met 
me afterwards, he manifested a degree of interest 
for my success, and always treated me with Chris- 
tian consideration. 



CHAPTEE XYIII. 

SA^^IUEL PETO, ESQ., M. P.— REV. DR. BROCK— TISIT TO 
THE TOWER — CROWN JEWELS — SABBATH-SCHOOLS — 
COURTESY RECEIVED AT ANNH'ERSARY ]MEEnNGS — 
DEACON GALE — GRAYESEND — VISIT TO SCOTLAND — 
I3IPRESSI0NS OF EDINBURGH AND GLASGOW— FARK- 
AYELL TO GRK\T BRITAIN. 

When" in Eoclidale, Yorkshire; and enjoying 
tlie hospitalities of Mr. Kellsall^ he gave me a let- 
ter of introduction to Samuel Peto, Esq.^ a mem- 
ber of Parliament for London, whom he mentioned 
to me as being his son-in-law. Mr. Peto enjoys 
the reputation of being one of the most wealthy 
and liberal men in the metropolis. I was informed 
that he erected, at his own cost, the most beauti- 
ful Baptist edifice in Bloomsbury, London, occu- 
pied by the Eev. Dr. Brock, of whose church he 
was an active member. Upon presenting my 
letter, Mr. Peto invited me to take breakfast with 
him the following morning, when he gave me 
twenty dollars, and always afterwards, when we 

159 



160 REV. WILLIAM BROCK. 

met; treated me with Christian kindness and con- 
sideration. 

As it was necessary to my success that I shonld 
obtain recommendations from leading Baptist min- 
isters and otherS; I made an early call; one morn- 
ing, on the Eev. Wm. Brock, with my certificates 
again in hand. After I had taken breakfast with 
him, and led in family devotions, he carefully ex- 
amined into the whole matter, gave me a sovereign 
and the following recommendation : — 

' ' Few cases have stronger claims on our Christian liber- 
alit}" than the one herewith presented by my friend, Mr. 
Asher. The merits of the case are singularly strong, and 
the character of Mr. Asher such as must commend his 
application to the generous attention of the churches of 
Clu-ist. William Brock, 

Bloomshury Chapel, 

Among the many who gave me strong testimo- 
nials whilst in London, I have in my possession 
those signed by the Hon. and Eev. Baptist W. 
Noel, the Eev. Drs. Cox, Hoby, Burns, Steane, 
Overbury, with the Eev. Messrs. F. Trestrail, John 
Aldis, James Smith, B. Lewis, Joshua Eussell, of 
Blackheath, and George Thompson, Esq., M. P. 
I publish for obvious reasons: — 



GEORGE THOMPSON, M. P. 161 

** Waterloo Place, May 28, 1850. 
**I have this day enjoyed the privilege of a lengthened 
interview with Mr. Asher, and have been inspired with a 
deep interest in the success of the object w^hich has brought 
him to this country. The foregoing pages show that he has 
not appealed in vain to those who profess a regard for the 
improvement of the social, moral, and religious condition of 
the colored people of the United States. I trust he will ex- 
perience little difficulty in raising the amount still necessary 
to liquidate the debt which presses at present very heavily 
upon the people to whose spiritual good he has devoted 
himself. A contribution given to Mr. Asher will not only 
be an act of generosity towards a struggling society, but a 
practical testimony against a cruel prejudice which has 
hitherto depressed and proscribed a large class of the popu- 
lation of America. I most cordially add my humble recom- 
mendation to the many which this book contains from men 
eminent for their piety and philanthropy. 

George Thompson. 

The larger part of my subscriptions in London 
was obtained by direct and personal application. 
I remained there about two months, which gave 
me ample time and opportunity to see almost 
every part of that world-renowned city. I found 
the facilities for travelling such that I could ride 
the entire length or breadth of the city for six- 
pence, or twelve cents ; and in all my travelling 
in Great Britain I was never once refused a seat 

in a public conveyance. But in Philadelphia no 
g2 



162 TOWER OF LONDON. 

colored persons^ except almost wLite^ are allowed 
a right enjoyed by tlie lowest dregs of society^ if 
only whitC; thus encouraging deception and hypoc- 
risy^ and practically offering a reward to ancialga- 
mation^ if not to licentiousness. 

My time^ however, would not allow me to visit 
specially any public places of interest; but such 
as fell immediately in my way. Among these 
was the Tower of London, through nearly the 
whole of which I was taken by the porters having 
charge of the Tower. There I saw the cell of 
Sir Walter Raleigh, on the walls of which was 
engraven his name by his own hand ; the gate 
from which Queen Mary departed to the execu- 
tioner's block ; the variety of armor worn by the 
British officers and soldiery of different reigns ; 
the different styles of deadly weapons used on the 
field of conflict; and, last of all, the crowns and 
sceptres, with other paraphernalia, used at the 
coronation of the different sovereigns of Britain 
from the time of William the Conqueror down- 
wards. Such sights worked their natural effect 
upon a republican mind, and I turned away only 
to rejoice in the simplicity of the form of govern- 
ment practically adopted in my own country, not- 



ANNIVERSARY MEETINGS. 163 

withstanding tliat I might think that she seems 
to have forgotten its true spirit and design. 

I was honored; whilst in this city, in being per- 
mitted to preach in at least three of the chapels, 
and to address two or three Sabbath-schools. I 
was also privileged to attend several anniversary- 
meetings in the month of May, when I met with 
brethren from several parts of the kingdom, whom 
it had been my privilege to see before, and held 
kindly intercourse with them. In all of those 
meetings, without exception, I was treated with 
the utmost consideration, and urged to take some 
part in the exercises. The brethren made me to 
forget, for a time, that I was ever, in any place, 
disfranchised on account of my color. Those 
meetings were seasons among my best recollec- 
tions of the past, and my best expectations for the 
future. There was nothing, either by word, look, 
or deed, which was designed or calculated to re- 
mind me of the superiority of my white brethren 
to myself; but, on the other hand, they said that 
they felt and rejoiced that we were all ^'one in 
Christ Jesus." In fine, this was my treatment 
throughout all England. I travelled nearly over 
the entire realm, was entertained most hospitably 
in many of the first families, as my testimonials 



164 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ENGLAND AND AMERICA. 

and diary will show; but never in a single instance^ 
either publicly or privately, was I reminded in 
any way of my difference of race, excepting in 
the case of the friend, referred to elsewhere, who 
had professed strong friendship for the colored 
man, and deep sympathy with an unfortunate and 
oppressed people. 

Whilst I am knowingly digressing from my 
main point, I cannot refrain from mentioning 
those circumstances which formed so striking a 
contrast in the treatment received by the colored 
man in the two countries. I venture to assert 
that no man possessed of the same sensitive tem- 
perament as myself can meet with his white 
brethren in America without occasionally having 
his equilibrium disturbed, all his religion to the 
contrary notwithstanding ; for they are bound to 
insult him, either by treating him with silent con- 
tempt, or saying something which they know, and 
he knows, and God knows is calculated to make 
him feel that his company is unwelcome. For my 
own part, T have long since understood this, and 
have acted accordingly. On the other hand, a 
colored Christian cannot stay for any length of 
time in Enrfand without beino; made to realize 
that his treatment, lil^e the Sabbath, is a season 



FRIENDSHIP OP SAMUEL GALE. 165 

of rest, and an earnest of good things to come; 
which may God hasten in His own good time ! 

My collections in London were of a smaller 
amount than in many other places in England, 
owing partly to the fact that the more wealthy 
portion of the Christian citizens resided in the 
suburbs, and were therefore diflB.cult to approach, 
and partly to the uncertainty of reaching them in 
their city of&ces. But yet I cannot close my re- 
marks upon London without special reference to 
my friend, deacon Samael Gale, barrister- at-law, 
living No. 70 Bazinghall Street, who was bap- 
tized by the Eev. Pr. Eippon, and who, if still 
living, undoubtedly holds the of&ce of deacon 
in Eev. Mr. Spurgeon's church. He manifested 
towards me much kindness, as he had formerly 
done towards the late Eev. Thomas Paul, of Bos- 
ton, whose accounts to a very considerable amount 
Mr. Gale informed me that he had audited. By 
the following certificate, it will be seen that he 
examined my accounts so far as the 20th of Sep- 
tember, 1850, including the amount which had 
been realized and paid over by bills of exchange 
to Eev. B. E. Loxley. 

After going through the whole book, he de- 
clared : — 



166 EXAlVnNATION OF ACCOUNTS. 

*' Examined and found correct." 

Samuel Gale, 
70 Bazingfiall Street^ London,'*'* 

In addition to the above, I present the follow- 



" We beg to state that the utmost reliance may be placed 
in the accuracy of Mr. Gale's examination of the foregoing 
accounts; and, further, that, in our opinion, Mr. Asher's 
expenses have been surprisingly small, viz., £143, 17s., lOcZ., 
and we rejoice that so large a sum as £525 have been se- 
cured, clear of all expenses, for the object. 

Fred. Tkestraill, 

Sec^y Baptist Missionary Society, 

James Hobt, D. D. 

William Groser, 

Joseph Angus, L.L. D." 

In addition : — 

**I have long had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Gale, and 
cheerfully testify to his high professional respectability. 

Edward Steane, D. D." 

Having so far accomplislied my work in Lon- 
don, I left many kind friends to see them no more 
until we meet above. My landlady and her entire 
household deserve my lasting gratitude for the 
many kindnesses shoAvn me ; and my prayer is 
that the blessing of Him who has graciously pro. 
mised to be a Husband to the widow, and a 



DEPARTURE FROM ENGLAND 167 

Father to the fatherless, may ever rest upon them ! 
'^I was a stranger, and they took me in." 

During the latter part of my mission to London, 
I occupied lodgings in Gravesend, a seaport thirty 
miles distant, which I found to be a very beauti- 
ful place, and quite a resort for Londoners during 
the warm w^eather. I preached in Zion Chapel, 
of that town, addressed the Sunday-school, and 
also received a contribution for my object. 

My visit to Gravesend concluded my tour in 
England, throughout nearly the whole of which 
I had been permitted to travel. In every city and 
village I was received hospitably, and treated with 
Christian affection, and recognized by every child 
of God as a man and a brother. My impressions 
of the whole country were mainly those of sur- 
prise and wonder, especially during my visit in 
London. Notwithstanding all that I had heard 
and read of the great metropolis, when I saw it I 
could not but be reminded of the words of the 
Queen of Sheba to Solomon, that '^the half had 
not been told'' me. So ended my journeyings in 
England. 

When my work was done in that city, being 
anxious to see Edinburgh, if but one day, I took 
my departure for Scotland. I was daily expect- 



168 TESTIMONIALS FROM FRIENDS IN SCOTLAND. 

ing to hear from a friend wlio had engaged to 
procure me a passage for the United States. I 
remained in the city of palaces about a week, but 
made few acquaintances, excepting with those 
immediately connected with the Baptist churches. 
One of the qhurches had three pastors, from the 
presiding one of which I received the following 
testimonial : — 

** Edinburgh, Sept. 29, 1B60. 

*'The Baptist church in Bristo Street received Mr. Jere- 
miah Asher, as a brother beloved in the Lord^ to commu- 
nion in the ordinance of the Lord's Supper and the other 
ordinances of social worship. Mr. Asher preached a most 
impressive and Scriptural discourse, by which the brethren 
were much refreshed and edified. They cordially and affec- 
tionately send their Christian salutations to the dear breth- 
ren and sisters over whom the Holy Spirit hath made him 
an overseer, and commend him to God and the Word of 
His grace. 

*'In the name of the church H. H. Dickie, 

One of the Pastors, 

I also received the following from the Elder 
Street Church : — 

Edinburgh, Sept. 80., 1850. 
**I have great pleasure in recommending the case of Mr. 
Asher and his church in Philadelphia to the consideration 
of fellow Christians. Mr. Asher has both addressed a meet- 
ing and preached a sermon in Elder Street Church, much to 
the satisfaction of those who heard him. His doctrine is 



GLASGOW. 169 

sound and truly Scriptural, his manner earnest, and his spirit 
throughout that of a man who has felt the power of the 
grace of God in his own soul. May the great God our 
Saviour send him back to his flock with an abundant bless- 
ing ! J. Watson, 

Minister^ Elder Street Church,'''' 

Here I protracted my stay for two or tkree 
days, more to see the city and its curiosities, than 
from any expectation or inducement which I had 
that I should receive pecuniary assistance. I 
visited Sir Walter Scott's monument, the Castle, 
and other places of interest. T then went to Glas- 
gow, there to close my labors, and then to bid 
adieu to the many and interesting friends whom I 
had made in Great Britain in the space of about 
fourteen months. 

A few days in Glasgow will close up my ac- 
count of what I saw and felt in that land of 
liberty. Glasgow, though the last city visited, is 
not by any means the least in my esteem. During 
my stay there, I received all that was necessary 
to cause me to feel that I was welcome to the 
hearts, houses, and churches of the people. I 
^ preached once, and addressed two or three other 
meetings. The Baptists in Glasgow are not nu- 
merous. Among other kind friends in that city, 

I met with the late Eobert Kettle, Esq., of whose 
8h 



170 CHERISHED REMEMBRANCES. 

decease I have been lately informed by the Eev. 
Mr. Girdwood, of New Bedford, Mass. Mr. Kettle 
was esteemed as one of the most kind, humane, 
and liberal-hearted men in all Scotland. At the 
time of his death, as a testimonial of their appre- 
ciation of his worth, the citizens of Glasgow 
assembled en masse to attend his funeral. He cer- 
tainly had been a very hospitable and philan- 
thropic man, kind to strangers, and careful to 
entertain them, not knowing but that thereby he 
might be entertaining angels unawares. 

My visit to Glasgow closed up one of the most 
delightful, and, I doubt not, one of the most suc- 
cessful years of my life, inasmuch as I feel that it 
must be profitable to me in my future labors and 
conflicts in the cause of my Master. The remem- 
brance of my association with some of the best 
men in the world, of listening to their counsel, 
remarking their examples, of learning the intense 
interest which British Christians, and philanthro- 
pists generally, entertain regarding the elevation 
of our down-trodden race — being made conscious 
of their strong desire to break off the yoke, and 
let the oppressed go free — surely such lessons I 
ought not to forget. Neither can I fail to remem- 



UNFEIGNED GRATITUDE. 171 

ber the favor and the uniform kindness, the warm 
affection and Christian courtesy, manifested to me 
in every town and hamlet which I visited in that 
vast empire. It is, therefore, my prayer that the 
rich blessing of God may ever rest upon them 
all ! Amen. 

Kind friends, I bid you all adieu ! 

Homeward I turn my wishful eye ; 
If not again on earth we meet, 

A grateful heart bids all good-bye ! 
When all our work on earth is done, 

May we in heaven through Christ be one ! 



CHAPTEE XIX. 

RETURN VOYAGE — ^RECEPTION ON BOARD THE STEADIER 
^'CITY OF GLASGOW"— A PROSPEROUS VOYAGE, AND 
SAFE RETURN HOilE. 

My mission being completed in England, so 
far as it was practicable, I took passage in the 
steamer *'City of Glasgow" (Captain Matthews), 
bound for New York, in October, 1850. As all 
the berths in the second cabin had been previ- 
ously engaged, I was compelled to take one in the 
first cabin — a privilege with which very few col- 
ored persons have been favored on board the 
ocean steamers. My berth was midship ; there- 
fore my seat was at the centre of the table. We 
left Glasgow at 12 o'clock, M., on Saturday, were 
towed down the Clyde as far as Greenock, and 
went to sea on Sunday, about 3 o'clock, P. M. 

When my passage was engaged, inquiries were 
made of the captain whether the fact of my being 
a colored man would subject me to different treat- 
ment from the other passengers. To these, he 

replied that, if I paid the same fare, I should 
172 



VIOLENT DEMONSTRATIONS ON SHIPBOARD. 173 

receive, in all respects, the same privileges. Being 
then introduced to him as a Baptist clergyman, 
he promised to see that every provision should be 
made for my comfort. There were on board five 
or six other ministers, of different denominations, 
among them the Eev. Dr. Kennedy, with his wife, 
of Troy, N. Y. It so happened that his seat at 
the table was next to mine. There was also a 
gentleman from New Orleans, accompanied by his 
wife and another lady, whose seats were directly 
opposite. When they came to dinner on the first 
day, this gentleman appeared to be much excited, 
and sending, in his anger, for the captain, inquired 
of him if he allowed "niggers" at his table. Capt. 
M. replied in the negative. "Well," said the gen- 
tleman, pointing at me, "there is one." The cap- 
tain then remarked: "That is Mr. Asher, from 
America, who has been introduced to me as a 
gentleman, and a clergyman of the Baptist de- 
nomination. I have received the same amount 
of passage money from him as from you, and 
cannot, therefore, interfere. But if you object to 
sit at the same table with him, other arrangements 
shall be made for you equally as good." Thus 
the controversy ended. He took his seat, but for 
a day or two appeared to be quite uneasy. Soon, 



174 DISRESPECTFUL CONDUCT AND RE3I0RSE. 

however, lie apparently became quite reconciled ; 
and, for the remainder of the voyagC; no one was 
treated by him and others with more politeness 
and consideration than myself. 

The gentlemanly bearing of the captain made 
things pleasant and agreeable for the rest of the 
voyage. There were two reverend gentlemen, 
whose names I will not mention (for I have reason 
to believe they have repented), who at first showed 
some symptoms of being trouhled at my presence; 
but; hearing the answer of the captain to the 
Southern gentleman, and seeing the kind atten- 
tion shown me by him, they also became very 
attentive to me ; an old acquaintance was renewed. 
One of these I remembered when he was a charity 
scholar in Brown University. He was then pastor 
of a country church in Connecticut. My aunt 
was a member of his church. He sat by me, and 
turned his back upon me. He and his wife were 
talking French ; and it seemed as if it was with 
difficulty that either could speak a word of 
English. After he found that I knew him, he 
apologized, and spoke in English. Both of these 
gentlemen treated me with kind attention after- 
wards, and told me, if ever I came to their places, 



PREPARATIONS FOR DIVINE SERVICE. 175 

I would be welcome to a seat at their tables, and 
beds in their houses. 

One of these I have since visited for the pur- 
pose of ascertaining whether his repentance was 
sincere, and I have every reason to believe he was 
converted. So it should be in all of the public 
conveyances where colored persons are proscribed. 
If the proprietors were men of principle, and firm 
for the right, they would have no trouble about 
settling the question in favor of their own interest. 

On the Sabbath morning, during breakfast, the 
captain informed us that it was his custom to hold 
religious services on the Lord's day, and that, 
when there was no clergyman on board, he was 
accustomed to read the service of the Episcopal 
church; but as he was now favored with so 
many preachers, he would appoint a committee 
to make arrangements for three services, to be 
held on each Lord's day during the voyage. He 
named me as chairman of this committee. He 
stated that it would be desirable, as so large a 
number of passengers was on board, to hold serv- 
ices in the first and second cabins at the same 
hour. The committee having retired to make 
arrangements for the day, it was strongly urged 
upon me that I should fill the first appointment. 



176 TERRIFIC STORM, 

To this I objeoted, on the plea that the doctors of 
diyinity should have the pre-eminence. Finally, 
Dr. Kennedy was appointed to preach in the first 
cabin^ and three others to make the arrangements 
for the day. I was selected to preach in the eve- 
ning. Thus six services were provided for. At 
all of these services^ the preachers were listened 
to with much attention and profit. By the time 
of the commencement of the evening servicC; we 
were visited with a most terrible storm. The sea 
had become so roughs that it was almost impossi- 
ble to stand. Nevertheless, I attempted to preach, 
although, whilst delivering my discourse, I was 
"under the necessity of clinging to the table. The 
text which I used on that dreadful night may be 
found in the 57th Psalm and 1st verse — ^^Be mer- 
cif al unto me, God, be merciful unto me ; for 
my soul trusteth in thee : yea, in the shadow of 
thy wings will I make my refuge, until these 
calamities be overpast." 

The '' City of Glasgow" was supposed to be in 
danger of being lost that night; and indeed it 
was an awful night, such an one as I hope never 
to see again. Upon the subsidence of the storm, 
we went into the port of Belfast, after being out 
twenty -four hours, to take in an additional supply 



SAPE ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK. ITT 

of coal. We were again soon on our way^ and 
arrived safely in New York, after a passage of 
seventeen dayS; fully appreciating tlie kind atten- 
tion which we had received from the gentlemanly 
officers. There we parted, some to meet no more 
until summoned by the great Archangel to stand 
before the Judo;ment Seat. 

I went immediately to pay a visit to my family, 
who still resided in Providence. TTe rejoiced 
together in the Lord that He had kept ns all in 
safety, prospered me in my labors, and improved 
me in bodily health, thus strengthening me for 
His service for the future, and laying me under 
lasting gratitude for the blessings of His pro- 
vidence. 



CHAPTER XX. 

FROM PROVIDENCE TO PHILADELPHIA— LOW STATE OF 
THE SHILOH CHURCH— RENDER A REPORI^-A RE- 
VIVAL — BAPTISM OF ]SIY DAUGHTER— MEETING OF AN 
ADVISORY COUNCIL — STRONG EFFORT TO REMOVE 
THE BALANCE OF THE CHURCH DEBT— AN UNWORTHY 
CHURCH 3IEMBER. 

Having spent two or three weeks in Pro- 
vidence; I left for Philadelpliia, where I received 
a most cordial welcome from the members of the 
Shiloh Baptist Church. But I found, much to 
my surprise and sorrow, that a sad change had 
taken place. Some, whom I had regarded as 
pillars of the church, had left for other places; 
others had gone to join the church above; so 
that, notwithstanding my success in England, I 
had great heaviness of heart ; but, still determined 
to be of good courage, and to trust in the Lord, I 
resolved to enter diligently upon my labors, and 
restore, so far as possible, that which was lost. 

Very soon after my return to Philadelphia, a 

large meeting was held in the Shiloh Baptist 

178 



ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING OF THE BRETHREN, 179 

Church to receive my report. The Eev. Howard 
Malcom, D. D.^ was chosen to preside ; and the 
Key. J. Newton Brown was appointed Secretary. 
The report was read, and enthusiastically received. 
A series of resolutions was then offered and 
adopted, expressive of the approbation of the 
church of the entire course pursued by the pastor 
in his representation of the church in England, 
and of their gratitude to the friends of the op- 
pressed for the kind reception given him, and 
the substantial aid afforded; also extending the 
thanks of the church to the pastor for his prompt- 
ness in remitting his collections to Eev. B. E-. 
Loxley, the Treasurer of the Building Fund. It 
was then ordered that the doings of the meeting 
be published in three of the papers of the denomi- 
nation. I could not refrain from congratulating 
the church and congregation upon their success, 
and the almost immediate prospect of being re- 
lieved from the pressure of a heavy debt, as we 
had now reduced our mortgage to two thousand 
dollars. A proposition was then made by some 
of the brethren to make a further reduction, by 
an immediate subscription. About two hundred 
were subscribed during the meeting, but not one- 
half of the sum was ever collected. 



180 GLOOMY PROSPECTS. 

Tlie pecuniary affairs of the church rested here 
for about four years, when, thinking that we were 
quite safe, I determined to give my whole atten- 
tion to its spiritual condition. Accordingly, we 
gave ourselves unto prayer, to seek the quicken- 
ing power and converting grace of Grod. But for 
an entire year, there was not in our midst, so far 
as I know, one conversion to God. From 1850 to 
1854, we received into the church seven members 
by baptism, and nineteen by letter, experience, &c. 
That was the most dreary season I have experi- 
enced during all my connection with the church. 

At that stage of our history, we had to contend 
with some opposition from the other colored 
churches of the city. They being, apparently, in 
a prosperous condition, the large number of per- 
sons who came to the city with letters of dismis- 
sion were induced to join their ranks. Strangers 
were informed of the precarious condition of the 
Shiloh Church — that we were in debt, and that 
the house was likely to be sold. Whilst, however, 
the fact of this opposition was a great obstacle to 
our progress, we determined still to trust and to 
labor. 

We continued to maintain all our regular meet- 
ings, which, considering the small number of our 



BLESSED REACTION. 181 

membersTiip; were invariably well attended. At 
length, in gracious answer to our prayers, the 
Lord was pleased to pour down upon us His 
Holy Spirit ; and for some time souls were daily 
converted to Christ. For months in succession, 
we enjoyed the privilege of disturbing the bap- 
tismal waters. During this revival, we held no 
extra services; our congregation increased; the 
membership of the cburch was much encouraged 
and strengthened; and the confidence of the pub- 
lic was secured. The meetings were all free from 
animal excitement, and of the most delightful 
cbaracter. And now, as we look back upon those 
days of spiritual enjoyment, when the Holy Spirit 
was manifestly in our midst, we are inclined to 
sing with, the poet : — 

"Once, Lord, thy garden flourished; 
Every plant was gay and green ; 
Then thy Word our spirits nourished — 
Happy seasons we have seen. ' ' 

On the third Sabbath in March, 1855, it was 
my privilege to baptize four Happy converts, and 
to receive into the cburch one by letter. The 
third Sabbath in April, when nine converts were 
baptized, and one was received by letter, was a 



182 iiY daughter's baptism. 

day long to be remembered. Among tbose bap- 
tized; was my own dear daughter, aged between 
seventeen and eighteen years. She had been a 
child of much anxious solicitude and many pray- 
ers. Her conversion and baptism were occasions 
of gratitude and joy to a father's heart, enhanced 
by my being permitted to administer the ordi- 
nance. Hail and snow made the day one of the 
most unpleasant of the season ; yet, notwithstand- 
ing this, one of the largest congregations ever 
convened in the Meeting-house, assembled both 
morning and afternoon. At the hour of the ad- 
ministration of the Lord's Supper, the house was 
filled to its utmost capacity. 

The third Sabbath in May was another bright 
day in our church calendar. Surely, the rod of 
His strength went forth from Zion. We received 
ten by baptism (eight of whom were baptized in 
the house, and two in the Schuylkill), and ten by 
letter, being the largest number ever received 
into the church at one time. '^Then said they 
among the heathen, The Lord hath done great 
things for them. Truly, the Lord hath done great 
things for us, whereof we are glad." 

On the third Lord's day in June, three persons 
were added by baptism, and two by letter. In 



CONDITION OF THE CHURCH'S FINANCES. 183 

July, two were received by letter. In September, 
two were added by baptism, and one by letter. 
Thus it appears that six months out of seven, the 
waters were troubled, whilst no extra meetings 
were held, nor was foreign aid employed. Our 
faith was in God, and in the power of His might. 
We used the means, and He blessed our labors. 
We were constrained to acknowledge that the 
work was His; and while we preached, and 
prayed, and labored to the best of our ability, we 
gave Him all the praise and all the glory. It was 
God who killed and made alive again. Looking 
back from this distant stand-point of time, and 
reflecting upon the labors and faith of the church, 
I regard it as one of the most precious seasons 
of revival I ever enjoyed. It certainly greatly 
strengthened us, for never was the church more 
united or happy than at that time. May the Lord, 
from the rich abundance of His grace, grant many 
more such seasons unto Shiloh ! 

Soon after this, our attention was directed to 
our remaining indebtedness on the building, the 
balance of the money remaining on mortgage 
being demanded. Upon full investigation, we 
ascertained our whole debt to amount to thirty- 
two hundred dollars. I was again disheartened 



184 CALL OF AN ADVISORY COUNCIL. 

and ready to lialt. To raise so large a sura of 
money witHn a given time, appeared to me to be 
a moral impossibility. To go abroad again to 
collect money for the same object as before was 
was out of tbe question. I therefore resolved to 
call an advisory comicil of the pastors and dea- 
cons of some of the Baptist churches in Philadel- 
phia. Yet, notwithstanding this resolution, I felt 
that the end had come ; we should lose our beau- 
tiful house; our hope would be destroyed, and 
the prophecies of our enemies fulfilled. 

When the council met, the whole subject was 
laid before them, and, as might be expected, there 
was found to be mu.ch difference of opinion. Some 
of the brethren argued in favor of abandoning 
the interest ; whilst others argued that it should 
be continued, if I would give myself to the col- 
lection of the money within twelve months. They 
also generously proposed to supply my pulpit 
during that time. After prayerful deliberation 
and consultation with my friends, I acceded to 
the proposition, provided that the whole sum 
could be raised in Philadelphia, and that all the 
brethren present would aid me to the utmost of 
their ability. To all this they agreed. Deacon 



GENEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS. 185 

John C. Davis, of the First Clnarcli, took tte first 
effective step towards raising the amount, by con- 
tributing fifty dollars. Other members of the 
council agreed to raise one hundred dollars each, 
provided that the whole amount needed was sub- 
scribed within one year. I subscribed to this 
debt one hundred dollars. Then followed deacon 
Frank Williams, of the Shiloh Church, with a 
subscription of one hundred dollars. 

About this time, the Lord sent us help by the 
unwearied and efl&cient labors of the Eev. Thomas 
S. Malcom, for whose services the Shiloh Church 
is laid under lasting obligation. He agreed to 
collect, upon the condition above stated, three 
hundred dollars. That pledge he more than 
redeemed ; whilst, in every way possible, he aided 
us both temporally and spiritually. His labors 
were highly acceptable to the church, and blessed 
by the Lord. Through his instrumentality, we 
established a Monday Evening Prayer-Meeting, to 
pray for two specific objects, viz., a Eevival of 
religion, and pecuniary assistance. 

The mortgage was held by a member of the 

church, who professed to be much embarrassed 

for the want of funds. As an extra inducement 
h2 



186 UNCHRISTLIN CONDUCT. 

to diligence, lie offered tliat, if I would raise in 
some way the amount of the mortgage, he would 
subscribe one hundred dollars, and he would 
allow me the use of the interest due him, which 
then amounted to about five hundred dollars, 
a;5 long as I continued with Shiloh Church, with- 
out interest, as a token of his regard and appreci- 
ation of service rendered to the church. This 
was an act of benevolence which he did not wish 
to be made public. My first effort was to raise 
the money to relieve him, in which I soon suc- 
ceeded without much difficulty. We agreed that 
he should receive the whole amount, transfer the 
mortgage, pay his subscription, and then fulfil his 
promise to me. In addition to the above, I had 
collected one hundred and sixty dollars on the 
interest. This being done, previous to raising 
the amount on the mortgage, he permitted me to 
use the sum, on my giving a note, until such a 
time as the whole arrangement should be com- 
pleted. He soon received the money, and, within 
a short time after, lost it, and rumor says con- 
siderably more, in some of the gambling places 
of this city. Only one dollar of his subscription 
was ever paid. Nothing was done towards re- 



DNEXPECTEB EMBARRASSMENT. 187 

deeming his pledge to me. My note was sold, 
end I was compelled to pay the one hundred and 
sixty dollars, with interest and costs of prosecu- 
tion. It is almost needless to add that he was 
excluded from the church; and his career in Phila- 
delphia ended. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

COLLECTIONS IN PHILADELPHIA — PERSONAL APPLICA- 
TIONS — LIBERALITY OF THE SHILOH CHURCH — 
CHtTRCH EXPENSES— MISTAKEN VIEWS. 

My work was now to pursue vigorously the 
task of collecting subscriptions. Taking advan- 
tage of my experience in England, and knowing 
tiiat I should meet with many discouragements; as 
well as many things to cheer me, I girded myself 
for the effort; determined not to go out of the city 
of Philadelphia. My first applications were made 
to the wealthy men of the city, many of whom 
assisted me with much liberality. I gave myself 
to the work five or six days in every week, and 
reported the subscriptions from time to time in 
the Christian Chronicle ^ that I might keep the 
object constantly before the public. One applica- 
tion which I made to a member of the Spruce 
Street Church afforded me, at a time when I most 
needed it, so much encouragement, that I cannot 
refrain from mentioning the circumstance. Al- 
though well acquainted with all the difficulties of 
188 



A HALLOWED CONTRIBUTION. 189 

collecting, I had not succeeded so rapidly as I 
tliouo'ht I ouo;ht to have done, and was becomino- 
disheartened. Cast down and perplexed, I went 
to the place of business of the brother alluded to 
above ; but I could scarcely state my case intelli- 
gently. He seemed to anticipate the difl&culty, 
talked kindly to me, and, giving me a check for 
fifty dollars, wished me success in my undertaking, 
and prosperity in the church. 

When in England on the same mission, I was 
recommended to call upon a wealthy gentleman 
who resided in Birmingham. He received me 
with courtesy, listened attentively to my story, 
and then, giving me ten dollars, thanked me for 
calling upon him, remarking, at the same time, 
that he was always glad to assist a minister of 
the Lord Jesus Christ, whether he wore a gown or 
not. I received many donations of a like sum 
in England, but never one that gave me so much 
encouragement. ^^The Lord loveth the cheerful 
giver." There are those who often give liberally, 
yet do so in such a way as to confer but little 
benefit. When brethren design to give, they 
should do it cheerfully, that they may encourage 
the heart and streng1;hen the hands of him who 
may be called to that peculiar department of 



190 THE TRIALS OF COLLECTING. 

Cliristiaii labor. Then will tlie work be much 
more speedily accomplished^ and with less ex- 
pense; besides saving the injuring of the feelings 
of those who ask for the Lord's money. A gift 
bestowed in such a spirit will be ^^ twice blessed — 
blessing him that gives and him that takes." 

I will illustrate my meaning by giving an 
anecdote in contrast with the above. Whilst 
making collections in England^ the Eev. Mr. Hay- 
croft; pastor of the Broadmead Church; whose 
munificent kindness I have already mentioned, 
desired that I should call upon a gentleman who 
had the reputation of being one of the most 
benevolent men in the city. Mr. Haycroft took 
especial pains to introduce me, and make him 
acquainted with the object of my mission. Having 
sent him one of my circulars, fully setting forth 
the particulars, I called upon him at his place of 
business. Immediately that he saw mC; he arose 
from his seat; laid his hand upon mC; and showed 
me the door; telling me never to come there again. 
I was overpowered with surprise ; but; on return- 
ing to my room; I determined to write the gentle- 
man a note. In that; I said that had I not sup- 
posed him to be a gentleman and a Christian; I 
should not have called upon him, and very much 



SUBSCRIPTIONS FROM SISTER CHrRCHES. 191 

regretted to have found myself mistaken. I ac- 
knowledged that I had no right to dictate as to the 
appropriation of his money ; but I did dispute his 
right to insult and maltreat me, and I could not 
believe that any true gentleman would be guilty 
of such contemptible conduct. He sent me a 
guinea without replying to my note. True, there 
were five dollars, but with a very large discount 
of the blessing. Should any who read these 
pages have any of the Lord's money when His 
stewards call for it, let me earnestly recommend 
them to bestow it cheerfully, that a blessing may 
rest upon them. 

But to return from this digTession. Havino* 

o o 

effected all that was possible by personal applica- 
tion, receiving subscriptions ranging from ten to 
one hundred dollars, I made a request of several 
churches to aid us by a contribution of one hun- 
dred dollars each, and that I should be permitted 
to make an individual appeal until that sum was 
realized. To this arrangement, the First, Second, 
Tenth, Twelfth, and Spruce Street Churches con- 
sented. From two of them, however, I did not 
collect more than half of the sum mentioned. 

Our own little Shiloh took hold of the work 
with a commendable zeal. More than seven hun- 



192 LIBERALITY OF THE BRETHREN. 

dred dollars were paid by my own congregation. 
'^The people had a mind to work" and to give. 
Brother Frank Williams, and others of our breth- 
ren and sisters, not only gave freely of their means, 
but strengthened my hands and encouraged my 
heart. Of brother Williams, it may be said that 
he was doing his last work. Before the object in 
view was accomplished, he fell asleep in Jesus, 
strong in the faith of our ultimate success. In 
his death, this church lost a faithful laborer, an 
exemplary Christian, and an efficient deacon. . 

We aimed, so far as it was practicable, to reach 
all the members of the church. Many were at a 
far distance. Some were in California, but gene- 
rously came to our help. Deacon Westward F. 
Keeling gave or collected one hundred dollars; 
and deacon Eobert Ruffin, then residing in Bur- 
lington, N. J., and Sister Alvira Carter, in Califor- 
nia, contributed fifty dollars each. Indeed, I 
believe that it may be said in truth, that the 
members generally gave according to their ability. 
With the exception of about seventy dollars, fifty- 
five of which I obtained from the First African 
Baptist Church, in Richmond, Ya., and about 
twelve from the Gilfield Church, Petersburg, Va., 



GENEROSITY OF FIRST CHURCH, WEST PHILAD'A. 193 

and the other cases already named, the whole 
amount was raised in Philadelphia. 

When the year had expired within one day, 
although I believed that I had used all the means 
possible within my reach, I lacked sixty or sev- 
enty dollars to make the subscription complete. 
I was perplexed, and knew not what to do. The 
year was about to close upon me ; and, unless the 
deficiency was provided for, the subscribers would 
not be bound to pay the sums afiixed to their 
names. Ascertaining, in the afternoon of that day, 
that there would be preaching in the evening, in 
the first Baptist Church, West Philadelphia, I 
sought the residence of brother Levy, the pastor, 
about an hour previous to the commencement of 
the service. I stated to him my difficulty, and 
requested permission to make an appeal to his 
people after the sermon. He replied that, if I 
would preach for him, I might tell my own story. 
I therefore preached a short discourse, and then 
presented my case. In fifteen minutes, the amount 
required was raised. And so ended my year's 
labor. 

I then commenced to collect the amount sub- 
scribed, which I found to be the most difficult 

part of the work. This consumed the greater 
9l 



-"^ 



194 REDUCTION OF CHURCH EXPENSES. 

part of another year. In consequence of change 
of circumstances^ deaths^ removals, and other 
causes, the collection of the whole subscription 
was rendered impossible. About twenty-seven 
hundred dollars were realized, which placed us in 
comparatively easy circumstances. It was not 
long before we succeeded in raising the balance 
due on the mortgage. Then we were free, with 
the exception of one hundred and sixty dollars 
ground rent. Previous to our first payment upon 
the mortgage, our current expenses amounted to 
about one thousand dollars per year. The interest 
on mortgage was three hundred dollars ; pastor's 
salary four hundred; ground rent, one hundred 
and sixty; sexton, fuel, hghts, &c., one hundred 
and forty-six — making, in all, one thousand and 
six dollars per annum. The amount of principal 
paid on our mortgage reduced the interest to one 
hundred and eighty dollars per year, bringing our 
annual current expenses about nine hundred dol- 
lars. This continued for abou!: seven years. I 
apprehend that few of our colored churches ever 
had more formidable pecuniary difficulties to con- 
tend against, and succeeded. This, however, was 
not without its advantages to us. It Avas a trial 
of our faith, and a good opportunity was afforded 



DIFFICULTIES OF COLLECTING ABROAD. 195 

US to place all our trust in tlie Lord^ so that when 
we received help we knew from whence it came. 
Thus it is that our heavenly Father helps those 
who cannot help themselves, but seek help from 
Him. 

Our coloi*ed brethren are laboring under a gross 
mistake in their theory of collecting money for 
the payment of church debts. They assume that 
it can be best done abroad. Not so. If prudence 
has been exercised, the denomination interested, 
and their confidence secured, it is better and more 
easily done at home ; and where this cannot be 
done, it is usually best not to be attempted abroad. 
I suppose my reception in England was as kind 
and cordial as has been extended to any man in 
similar circumstances ; but yet I was obliged to 
travel nearly all over that country at an expense 
of between seven and eight hundred dollars, the 
church meanwhile being deprived for nearly two 
years of the services of a pastor, and his family of 
a head, to collect about the same amount as was 
subsequently realized in our own city. I hope 
ever to remember with gratitude the kindness and 
generosity of our brethren in Great Britain to the 
church which I represented, and to our colored 
brethren generally : but I found that which I was 



196 COLLECTION OF FUNDS AT HOME. 

slow to believe, and do most freely confess, that 
onr friends at home, when once aronsed to see the 
importance of the object, are not less generons 
in contributing to the necessities of the colored 
people than our friends abroad. '^I have learned 
by experience," and therefore suggest to all my 
brethren who anticipate seeking foreign aid for 
any cause of Christian benevolence, to do so only 
as a last resort, and even then not without you 
are able to make out a very strong case; and 
when that is done, begin and work at home, not 
think of running all over the country to collect 
a few hundred dollars. Seek it in the vicinity 
where you are located, and I believe it will gene- 
rally be obtained. 



CHAPTEE XXII. 

PECUNIARY DIFFICULTIES— CHURCH EDIFICE IN THE HANDS 
OF THE SHERIFF — REMARKS ON THE DISPOSITION OF 
PROPERTY. 

The reader is requested to go back with me 
a little in my narration^ that "we may note some 
other facts of interest. The time spent in the 
operation of procuring subscribers and collecting 
the money was about two years. Those were 
years of care and anxiety. Some of our creditors 
became very impatient, and began to enforce their 
claims. Then all manner of rumors were circu- 
lated. It was predicted that our flourishing of 
trumpets amounted to nothing, and our apparent 
success would prove to be a failure. During those 
two years, the Sheriff's bill was placed upon the 
house twice. On each occasion, it appeared on 
the Saturday night. This, I doubt not, was de- 
signed to injure us. On one Saturday evening 
during this eventful period, deacon Williams came 
into my room in the rear of the church, evidently 

laboring under much excitement, and informed me 

197 



198 MEETING-HOUSE IN THE SHERIFF'S HANDS. 

that the Sheriff''s bill was on the house. Going 
out with him, I observed quite a number of people 
occupied in reading it. The rumor rapidly spread 
that the meeting-house of the Shiloh Church was 
certainly to be sold at Sheriff's sale. "We then 
consulted together as to the best course to be pur- 
sued. I told deacon Williams that he must either 
borrow the money for six or nine months, or fur- 
nish it himself. To this he interposed objections, 
concluding by saying that to do either was impos- 
sible. I still insisted that under the circumstances, 
with his influence with moneyed men, and his 
knowledge of business, it was his duty to render 
help in so pressing an emergency. He still per- 
sisted in his refusal. Then, after telling him that 
the money must be forthcoming, and the proceed- 
ings stopped, I requested him to take down the 
bill, and procure some water to wash the place 
where it had been posted. 

This done, I resumed my work of making pre- 
paration for the Sabbath, almost assured that I 
should have a large congregation. The morning 
came, and the people began to rally unusually 
early. Many inquiries were made for the Sheriff's 
bill, the very existence of which^ some having no 
knowledge of the matter, they positively denied. 



FORTUNATE RELIEF. 199 

Others were anxious to ascertain the truth or 
falsity of the report ; but, seeing deacon "Williams 
and myself apparently unmoved, they concluded 
that it could only be a false rumor. I preached 
as well as I could under such trying circum- 
stances, probably in some respects better than I 
should have done had I been free from so heavy 
a burden on my mind. 

Early on Monday morning, I called upon a 
friend, related to him our difficulties, and requested 
his assistance, when he readily consented to loan 
the amount required for twelve months. Thus 
did the Lord once more interpose on our behalf. 
After paying one thousand dollars, which was the 
balance of the mortgage, we were allowed quietly 
to pursue our course. 

Believing that such things ought not to be, and 
would not be, if Christians performed their whole 
duty, I would offer some reflections upon the ob- 
ligation which devolves upon members of churches, 
not only to give during life, as the Lord has pros- 
pered them, but also to remember the church of 
Christ in their last will and testament. I believe 
that in this respect many professors of religion 
are manifestly at fault. Only one member of our 
church ever left us a legacy, and nothing was 



200 LEGACIES AND DONATIONS. 

realized from that. I am fully aware that there 
are but few among us who have anything to leave, 
but there are some who may need to be reminded 
that a cause for which they can pray and labor 
whilst they live^ is worthy to receive a posthu- 
mous gift from them. I have known some who 
possessed quite an extensive property, to die with- 
out paying their dues to the church — much less 
did they leave a legacy for its benefit. And I 
have lived to see many instances where the 
property of deceased professing Christians was 
quickly squandered away. Two of these are no- 
ticeable as affording a warning, and teaching a 
lesson. One of them happened in H — — ; the 
other near this city. 

In the first case, the individual was worth some 
three or four thousand dollars. When she knew 
that she was about to die, she sent for a gentlemen 
to draft her will, and informed him that she was 
about to leave most of her property to be divided 
between his children and a cousin of his. He 
assured her that they did not need her money, as 
they would be well provided for, and suggested 
that there was a poor church of the same denomi- 
nation as that to which she was attached, and two 
colored young men of much promise, that needed 



AN UNCHARITABLE TRANSACTION. 201 

just sucli help asslie was prepared to afford. She 
rejected the suggestion with the remark that^ if 
she could not bestow her property according to 
her own pleasure^ she would leave it to the bene- 
volent institutions of the Presbyterian church. 

The other case was that of a member of a 
Baptist church, with whom I was well acquainted, 
who was apparently one of the most zealous mem- 
bers of the church, excepting in the matter of 
giving, and died possessed of some ten or fifteen 
thousand dollars. The church of which she was 
a member was in debt for their house of worship ; 
yet she even failed to make provision for her 
monthly assessments due the church. After 
making some small provision for her adopted child, 
she left a large portion of her estate to a wealthy 
gentleman who had the charge of her business, 
and claimed to be a strong friend to the negro, 
but not one cent to the church. In this way, she 
almost totally ignored certain parties who had a 
legal right to the property. That colored persons, 
either through their ignorance or prejudice, should 
be sometimes induced to make such a disposition 
of their effects, is not surprising ; but that gentle- 
men of wealth, who stand upon their dignity, 
should stoop so low as to accept such legacies, and 



202 HYPOCRISY. 

even to assist in maturing such arrangements — to 
rob the poor and fatherless children^ to deprive 
the orphan of his right — is ^^ passing strange." 

There are colored people who have yet to learn 
the worth of the apparent respect (for it is only in 
appearance) which they receive beyond many of 
their friends, who are equally respectable, although 
poorer. If purchased by money, it is but of little 
worth. When a boy, I remember hearing of a 
very respectable colored man, who was possessed 
of considerable property. This it was which 
made him respectable, for men the wide world 
over are so considered, if they have money, no 
matter by what means they may have obtained it. 
To use his own phrase, he was ^^at home" every- 
where. He scarcely realized that he was a black 
man. He was induced to aid his friends by giving 
loans and becoming surety, until he lost all. Then 
he found out that he was a colored man. His 
name was David Norton. When his money was 
gone, he lost the respect of his friends, '^They 
used," said he, on one occasion, ^'to call me Mister 
Norton, but now it is Old David." 

^' These are spots in your feasts of charity." 
The professing Christian world is, I fear, at fault. 
Many Christian men and women have yet to learn 



BEQUESTS MADE TO THE CHURCH, 203 

that, if God has prospered them in worldly sub- 
stance far beyond others — that when making a 
distribution of their property, it is their duty to 
remember the church for the progress of which 
they have professedly toiled and prayed, so that, 
whether living or dying, their property should be 
the Lord's. They should adopt the language, 
with reference to the subject, of the sweet singer 
of Israel — ''If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my 
right hand forget her cunning; if I do not re- 
member thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of 
my mouth ; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my 
chief joy." The amount which a Christian may 
bequeath to the church of Christ is not of so 
much importance as the fact that the gift helps to 
prove an abiding love to the Saviour, and to show 
his measure of faith in the ultimate success of the 
Gospel. How can a Christian of property die in 
peace, without thus proving anew his loyalty to 
the kingdom of the Lord Jesus ? Surely, this is 
a subject which needs consideration. Friends of 
the Saviour, "Eemember ZionT' 

I cannot better close this chapter than by an 
appeal to those who may read these pages, and 
may have something to dispose of for benevolent 
purposes, living or dying, to help Shiloh to pay 



204 AN APPEAL TO THE GENEROUS. 

off her gronnd rent, which is two thousand six 
hundred and eighty dollars, and let them own 
their property in fee simple. If a few benevolent 
persons were to leave in their last will and testa- 
ment any part of that sum, to be applied with 
interest when the whole amount should be pro- 
vided, I have no doubt it would be as acceptable 
to God as most legacies which are made. 0, that 
the cause of Shiloh may still be remembered by 
the friends of Jesus ! that in the pro\T.dence of 
God I may be permitted to see that beautiful 
place of worship owned by the church ! I think 
all will agree that I have labored long and hard 
enough to behold it. May the good Lord incline 
the hearts of some of his children to perform it ! 



CHAPTEE XXm. 

SICKNESS AND DEATH OF 3IY DAUGHTER ELLEN— REFLEC- 
TIONS — ANOTHER CHILD — SPECIAL INTEREST IN THE 
CHTRCH UNDER THE PREACHING OF REV. J. M. RICH- 
ARDS—HAPPY RESLT^TS. 

The year 1855 was to me one of mingled grief 
and joy; but I can yet truly say that the Lord 
was good. Early in the spring, my only daughter, 
who had just completed her education, and had 
commenced to learn a trade, was taken sick with 
the bilious fever, and confined to her room for 
four or five weeks. Although I felt a deep 
anxiety for her, the assurances of the physician 
were such, that I did not regard her disease to be 
dangerous. Near the close of her sickness, how- 
ever, she was taken with violent bleeding at the 
nose, which the physician succeeded in checking. 
She then appeared to improve slightly. On 
Wednesday evening, the 21st of March, as I was 
about to leave my house for my weekly preaching 
engagement at our church, I entered her room to 

speak with her, when she requested that I would 

205 



206 MY daughter's death. 

stay with her. To that I readily consented, 
although I did not suppose that she was any 
worse. On account of her extreme weakness, I 
refrained from much conversation. About ten 
o'clock, she commenced bleeding again quite 
rapidly, when I went immediately for my phys- 
ician, whom I found to be at the time in attend- 
ance upon one of his neighbors. He offered me 
a prescription, and promised to call and see my 
daughter previous to his return home. I waited 
only for his directions, which he was in the act of 
giving me when a messenger arrived in haste, 
and informed me of the most painful of all news, 
that my Ellen was dying. In company with the 
physician, I hastened home with all speed ; but I 
was too late ! Before we reached the house,* my 
dear daughter had breathed her last, and her 
spirit had returned to God who gave it. So 
severe a shock I had never before experienced ; 
but, although I could not speak, I felt that ^' the 
Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away ; blessed 
be the name of the Lord." Thus were many of 
our hopes disappointed and our expectations 
blasted. We had cherished the fond desire that 
she might be preserved to be a comfort and help 
to us in our declining years; but the Lord, in His 
wisdom, was pleased to take her away in the very 



THE ^IE3I0RY OF THE RIGHTEOUS. 207 

bloom of her youth^ thus making our hearts deso- 
late. She died at the age of eighteen years and 
three months, and had been a member of the 
church for eleven months. During all her sick- 
ness, she manifested entire resignation to the will 
of her heavenly Father. Whilst she expressed a 
desire to live on our account, if it was the Lord's 
will, she was entirely submissive, and willing to 
commit herself into His hands. I can truly say 
that she was respected and beloved by all her 
friends, by a large circle of whom she was much 
lamented. The funeral services occurred on the 
following Sabbath, when a very interesting and 
impressive discourse was delivered by my friend 
and brother, the Eev. T. S. Malcom, from the text, 
''Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think 
not the Son of man cometh." The church was 
filled as it had not been since the day when she 
was buried with Christ in baptism, and the con- 
gregation was deeply affected, I trust, to the ever- 
lasting profit of many. 

Deep and sore as this affliction was, we were 
comforted with the thought that our loss was her 
eternal gain, and that therefore we could not sor- 
row as those who were without hope. This dis- 
pensation of the providence of God, dark and 



208 AN INCREASE IN MY FAMILY. 

incomprehensible as it appeared to be^ has not^ I 
hope, been without its especial benefit. I feel that 
it has taught me to sympathize the more with 
those who are similarly afflicted. Perhaps it was 
needful that I should drink such a bitter cup to 
the very dregs^ for the ministers of Jesus Christ, 
of all other men, are most called to sympathize 
with the afflicted. This they can really do when 
a deluge of sorrow has rolled over their own souls. 
Then they are able to administer comfort and con- 
solation as they themselves have been comforted 
of the Lord. This it is which will prepare them 
to bind up the wounded hearts of those who may 
have been called to mourn the loss of dear chil- 
dren or friends. 

In August, we were blessed with our fifth and 
last child, which was a source of no small con- 
solation to us — a comfort in the day of sorrow. 
We felt that the Lord sometimes removes one 
blessing that he may bestow another. Of the five 
children whom the Lord has given us, we have 
but two remaining, viz., Thomas Paul, born in 
Providence, E. I., in June, 1846, and John Isaiah, 
born in Philadelphia, in August, 1855. May the 
Lord give us wisdom and grace to educate them 
in His fear. 



REV. J. M. RICHARDS. 209 

Notliing of special interest occurred in the 
church from 1855 to 1857. We lived in peace 
among ourselves, felt somewhat of the Spirit of 
the Lord to be with us, and enjoyed many profit- 
able meetings. In February, 1857, the Rev. J. M. 
Richards kindly consented to labor with us in a 
protracted meeting. For two or three weeks, we 
met with but little encouragement. The vision 
tarried. Mr. Richards preached faithfally every 
night, and the brethren continued to wait on the 
Lord by prayer and supplication, until He poured 
down upon us His Spirit from on high, when com- 
menced one of the most precious seasons of re- 
vival in which it has been my privilege to labor. 
On the third Sabbath in January, three willing 
converts were baptized. It was truly a refreshing 
time in Shiloh. The Word preached was attended 
with power from above. The congregations were 
large and attentive. From that time onwards, for 
some weeks, every day mtnessed to a profession 
of faith in the Saviour by some souls; and on 
each successive Sabbath our house of worship was 
literally crowded by persons desirous of seeing 
the ancient rite administered, and happy souls 
rejoicing in the Lord. 

Those meetings continued about eight weeks, 
12 



210 A FRIEND TO THE STRUGGLING. 

during whicli time great grace fell upon the 
people. It was indeed a period of deep interest 
to the church. Many will have occasion for ever- 
lasting gratitude to God that He ever sent brother 
Eichards to labor with us. His success upon this 
occasion was no exception, for it pleases the Lord 
to bless his preaching in every part of the vine- 
yard which he may visit; especially where religion 
has been at a low ebb, and brethren and sisters 
have become discouraged. His advent among 
them has always been like the coming of Titus. 
But the brother needs no letter of commendation 
from me. His praise is in all the churches. Never- 
theless; I would recommend to the members of the 
poor and weak churches of Jesus Christ, when 
they feel to need help to move the ark of the 
Lord; to procure, if possible; the services of that 
man of God. And this for two reasons: 1st. They 
may confidently expect God's blessing to attend 
his laborS; if they will exercise faith, and labor 
with him ; and 2d. Because the Lord has so 
blessed him temporally, that Mr. Eichards can 
aftbrd to labor without the same amount of com- 
pensation which those of God's ministers ought to 
receive who have not been favored with a com- 
petency of this world's goods. He will be found 



ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP. 211 

to possess a willing heart and an ardent love for 
his Master's work. 

As the result of this revival, about eighty were 
added to the church by baptism, and several others 
by letter and experience. Many of them have 
proved themselves valuable members of the church, 
some of which have died in the faith of the Gospel, 
and others like the dogs, returning to their vomit, 
and like the sow that is washed, to the wallowing 
in the mire. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

SHILOH BAPTIST MEETING-HOUSE — LACK OF BENEVO- 
LENCE—LIST OF CHURCHES— SELF-DENIAL OF THE 
^nNISTRY—ENCOURAGEMENTS TO LABOR— CONCLU- 
SION. 

From the time mentioned in tlie previous chap- 
ter nnto the present, there has continued a good 
state of feeling in the church. There has been, 
also, quite a number of baptisms; but yet no 
special revival interest has been enjoyed. The 
most important transaction which has occurred 
among us was the repairing of our house of wor- 
ship, which was commenced in the spring of 1860, 
and occupied seven months, at an expense of 
about fourteen hundred dollars. Those repairs, 
both within and without the building, were very 
thorough. Besides which, the building was en- 
closed by an iron fence. It is now not only the 
most substantial and commodious, but also the 
finest house of worship owned by our colored 
brethren in the denomination from Maine to 

Georgia, and east of the Kocky Mountains. It 
212 



THE EFFECTS OF SLAVERY UPON THE CHTTICH. 213 

cost about twelve tlioiisand doUarS; including the 
ground. Although with a membership of about 
three hundred, and current expenses only seven 
hundred dollars per year, it might be supposed to 
be very easy to maintain it ; yet it is not quite 
clear to my mind that the majority of the church 
have any just appreciation of the manner in 
which the Lord has favored us, and therefore not 
of their own true condition. Perhaps no church 
ever had a more self-sacrificing, resolute, and de- 
termined set of members than are many of the 
Shiloh Church ; but the majority are otherwise. 
The penurious and covetous spirit which main- 
tains with many, I regard as one of the fruits of 
oppression, which it may take more than one 
generation to cure. 

The system of slavery necessarily brings and 
keeps together a larger number of colored persons 
than would live in company under other circum- 
stances. If the people were free, they would 
naturally seek out those places which offered the 
best inducements to them for obtaining a liveli- 
hood. Some would go to Africa, some to Hayti, 
whilst others in yet different directions. We 
should not then see what now w^e are forced to 



214 SOUTHERN CHURCHES. 

behold in Eiclimond, Petersburg, Augusta, Savan- 
nab, and other places. 

Take the following as an illustration : Accord- 
ing to the census of 1850; the population of New 
York and Pennsylvania amounted in all to nearly 
six millions; with less than eighty thousand col- 
ored people. In Georgia and Virginia; there were 
about one million four hundred and seventy -four 
thousand ; whilst the colored population, in those 
two States, numbered eight hundred and fifty- 
four thousand. My reason for selecting those two 
States is not because the colored population there 
is the largest; as the census shows that Kentucky 
and Tennessee far exceed them, but on account of 
the position of the Baptist interest in the two for- 
mer States. The fact that the system of slavery 
binds our colored people together, and forces them 
so to remain; independent of their interests and 
their will; must be favorable to their securing 
large congregations. This must be especially 
seen when the fact is taken into consideration 
that matters connected with religion are the only 
subjects in which they are permitted any partici- 
pation, and that; in many placeS; only on the Sab- 
bath day. A person might appear to be a very 
good Christian in Eichmond or Georgia; attending 



CHURCH EXPENSES NORTH AND SOUTH. 215 

meeting on every Sabbath day, who, in Philadel- 
phia or New York, would seldom attend publio 
worship, and then reluctantly contribute anything 
to the cause. Or, if anything were given, it would 
be but a small sum, which, however, would be 
considered C[uite liberal in the South. Where two 
or three thousand persons are members of one 
church, how easy for such a membership to raise 
the one hundred or more dollars per quarter for 
the pastor's salary, which, in the South, amounts 
to about four or five hundred dollars per year. 
For this, however, few give more time to the 
church than to preach twice on the Sabbath, 
spending: their time durinsr the week in commerce, 
farming, or other secular occupations. If but 
half of the membership of such churches give but 
twenty-five cents each per month, or three dollars 
per year, there would always be a surplus in the 
treasury. But that will not be the case in the 
free States, where the congregations must necessa- 
rily be less, and the expenses greater. When, 
therefore, brethren remove from those densely 
populated regions and those overgrown associa- 
tions, to settle where the colored people are much 
less numerous, and the churches more feeble, it 
will take some time to educate them to oive 



216 pastors' salaries. 

according to their ability. My own experience 
with persons who were comparatively wealthy 
has confirmed me in that fact; although they 
might be, in every other respect, excellent Chris- 
tians. If, therefore, our white brethren suppose 
that this class of persons to whom I refer can suc- 
ceed, in the outset, in sustaining independent 
churches, I must pronounce them to be mistaken. 
The majority of our people need to be educated 
to give. 

But very few persons have formed any adequate 
idea of the self-denial which a colored pastor must 
practice. I do not know of more than two col- 
ored churches that pay so much as $500 per 
annum, viz., the Independent Baptist Church, 
Boston, Mass., and the First Colored Church in 
Washington. The latter have also reduced theirs 
to $400 the last year. 

There are only six churches, so far as my 
knowledge extends, which pay $400 per year for 
ministerial support, viz., the Abyssinian and Zion 
Baptist Churches, New York ; the First African 
and Shiloh Churches, Philadelphia ; the Second 
Church, New Bedford, Mass. ; the Hamilton Street 
Church, Albany; and the Twelfth Church, Boston. 

The Union Church, Philadelphia; Oak Street 



BROTHER W. J. BARNETT. 217 

Church, West Philadelphia; and Meeting Street 
Church, Providence, E. I., each pay an annual 
salary of $300. 

In this enumeration, I may possibly have 
omitted two or three churches which should be 
added to the last classification; but I do not re- 
member one that should be added to the first; 
although, doubtless, there are several of our 
churches fully able to pay the larger amount, 
and even more, were they willing to recognize 
their duty to make a sacrifice, and fully to be- 
lieve the apostolic words, that '^the laborer is 
worthy of his hire,'' and they that preach the 
Gospel shall live by the Gospel. 

As an item of important interest, I will place 
on record, in this volume, a list of the colored 
Baptist churches which are associated together for 
the purpose of carrying on missionary operations, 
home and foreign. With reference to our foreign 
work, it may be desirable to notice that we have 
already commenced a mission in Waterloo, Sierra 
Leone, where we have sustained, for the past four 
years, our brother, William John Barnett, a native 
preacher, now in this country. He is supplying 
the Oak Street Baptist Church, West Philadel- 
phia, being unable to return to his native land on 
10k 



218 BAPTIST MISSIONARY CONVENTION. 

account of a deficiency in the treasury of the con- 
vention; produced by the stringency of the times. 
It is, ho^Yever, confidently hoped and expected 
th-at sufficient means may soon be raised to for- 
ward him to his field of labor in Africa, in con- 
nection with another brother, to assist in the 
erection of a chapel, and more thoroughly to 
establish the mission generally. 

The following is a list of the churches which 
have been connected with the Baptist Missionary 
Convention for a number of years : — 

Abyssinian and Zion Churches, New York; 
First African, Shiloh, and Union Churches, Phila- 
delphia; Oak Street Church, West Philadelphia; 
Twelfth and Independent Churches, Boston ; Con- 
cord Street Church, Brooklyn ; Third Church, 
Brooklyn, E. D.; First, Second, and Third (col- 
ored) Churches, Washington, D, C; Union and 
Saratoga Street Churches, Baltimore; Meeting 
Street Church, Providence; Second Church, Gen- 
eva; Second Church, New Bedford; Hamilton 
Street Church, Albany ; Shiloh Church, New- 
burgh ; Pleasant Street Church, Nantucket ; 
Berean Church, Carsville ; Zion Church, New 
Haven; Baptist Church, Columbia; Third 



MINISTERL4lL deprhmtioxs. 219 

Church, Eochester ; Salem Church, New Bedford ; 
and Michigan Street Church, Buffalo. 

With one or two exceptions, it has been my 
privilege to visit and labor with each of the above- 
named churches, and I therefore claim to have had 
an opportunity to form some idea of their strength 
and the self-denial which their pastors are obliged 
to exercise in order to live comfortably, and be 
honest with all men. To show the necessity of 
self-sacrifice, let us take, for example, ISTew York, 
Philadelphia, Boston, Baltimore, Washington, and 
other places of large population. It is but rea- 
sonable to suppose that the pastors of the churches 
in those cities would occupy a dwelling at a rental 
of about SloO per annum, which, in such places, 
would be considered a comparatively small rent. 
With such a deduction made from a salary of 
$100, only S250 remain for the clothing and gene- 
ral support of his family. Besides which, it is 
enjoined upon him to be ^^ given to hospitality;" 
whilst, also, it is his duty to be hberal in his con- 
tributions to some of the Christian institutions of 
the day, that he may set before his brethren a 
proper example, and aid in forwarding the pro- 
gress of the cause of Christ. It is, therefore, a 
hard problem to solve — how a minister of Christ, 



220 INDEBTEDNESS TO PASTORS. 

having a family, can live in a large city, where 
rent, fuel, and clothing generally command the 
highest prices, on so small a sum, without some- 
times being subjected to sorer temptations than 
are likely to befall other men not engaged in the 
same calling. The natural solution of such a 
problem appears to be that he must either starve, 
enter upon some other pursuit in addition to his 
ministerial work (thereby neglecting many import- 
ant duties pertaining to his high office), or con- 
tract debts which he sees no very certain prospect 
of liquidating. There does not seem to be any 
other alternative left to his choice. How can it 
be otherwise? 

There is yet another pecuniary difficulty known 
to the colored pastor's experience, viz., scarcely 
one-half of the churches are punctual in their pay- 
ments of even the small pittance promised. With 
this additional fact taken into consideration, it 
certainly cannot be very difficult to imagine the 
state of mind of that minister who has received a 
pledge from his brethren that his salary of three 
or four hundred dollars shall be punctually paid, 
yet, nevertheless, fail, until their indebtedness 
amounts to one hundred or one hundred and fifty 
dollars. One of my brethren in the ministry re- 



A pastor's TRLy:.s. 221 

cently told me that the ctiurcli was behind some 
three or four hundred dollars. Meanwhile, with- 
out regard to these facts, his church and congrega- 
tion expect him to be industrious and faithful, and 
even as zealous as any other pastor in the vicinity, 
although very differently situated; and all this 
when he may feel himself to be under the dire 
necessity of going from house to house, for half 
of the day, seeking to obtain the favor of a small 
loan, to provide the commonest necessaries of sub- 
sistence for his family. Failing in that endeavor, 
he may then have recourse to his deacons, believ- 
ing that they most certainly will give him aid and 
comfort. He relates to them his tale of sadness, 
enough to move a heart of stone, supposing it to 
be capable of receiving an impression from such 
a source. In reply, it is probable that he will be 
kindly told that the treasury is empty, and that, 
if the people fail in the payment of their subscrip- 
tions, the pastor, much to their regret, must wait 
patiently, especially as they hoped that an im- 
provement would soon be effected. The deacons 
then promise to see the trustees, to whom the pas- 
tor, also, has recourse, as a last resort, and proba- 
bly with the same result as in the former case. 
After spending one-half of the week, perhaps, in 



222 DUTIES UNLmiTED. 

thus seeking bread for his family^ it is still ex- 
pected that he will feed his flock with the good 
Word of Life. But will the reader attempt to 
imagine the character of sermons which a minis- 
ter, with such a burden on his mind, would be 
likely to preach. In addition to the expectation 
of profitable sermons to be realized every Sab-' 
bath, the pastor must know, as if by common 
instinct, of the sickness of every member of the 
church — even of those who but rarely attend. 
In short, he must preach and pray, visit the sick, 
seek out the backslider, comfort the dying, admin- 
ister the last offices to the dead, omitting no min- 
isterial duty whatever; whilst his family are 
craving bread, and his soul is in great distress. I 
venture to assert that many of our colored minis- 
ters labor under Such or similar disadvantages, 
from year to year, until, at length, broken down, 
they are brought to a premature grave, with their 
ministerial character destroyed, because they could 
not effect the impossibility of paying their debts 
without means, any more than the children of 
Israel could make bricks without straw. 

The question may, perhaps, be asked, and with 
some show of reason. If all this be true in fact, 
why do not the colored ministers abandon the 



PERSONAL FAVORS. 223 

profession, and enter npon some more lucrative 
employment ? To this it is replied that, having 
received the Master's call and commission, ^e 
endure the cross, and despise the shame for the 
joy which is set before us, having full faith in the 
promises of God. That faith enables us to perse- 
vere amid evil report and good report : whilst, in 
the midst of all our trials, the Holy Spirit is oft- 
times pleased to make ns the humble agents of 
effecting more good than if we dressed in fine 
linen, rode in carriages, and fared sumptuously 
every day. By reference to the minutes of the va- 
rious associations with which some of the despised 
colored churches are connected, it may be seen that 
their poor pastors have been honored of the Lord 
with as great, and sometimes with more abundant 
success than many brethren who have been fa- 
vored with an abundance of this world's sub- 
stance. 

But again: it maybe inquired, Do not these 
ministers receive many presents from their 
churches and others, and are they not thus ma- 
terially assisted ? To this query I reply that, in 
this respect, I presume I have been favored as 
much as most of my colored brethren — even if 
not more. My ministerial life now numbers 



224 ACKNOWLEDGED FRIENDSHIP. 

twenty-two years, twelve of which have been 
spent in Philadelphia, where there are about 
twenty Baptist churches, in all of which, during 
my residence iu the city, pastoral changes have 
been made, excepting in the Tenth (Dr. Ken- 
nard's) and Shiloh Churches. Through ail my 
career in the ministry, it has pleased the Lord 
(and I speak it to the praise and glory of His 
great name) to raise up friends, both in and out 
of the church, in Providence and Philadelphia, 
especially in the latter city, where my residence 
has been more protracted. During the twenty- 
two years of my ministry, I have received only 
five suits of clothes, with other smaller gifts ; but 
still I have been able to make a respectable 
appearance. In Philadelphia, I have found many 
noble-hearted friends (the names of whom I would 
cheerfully mention, but I know it would be re- 
pugnant to their feelings), for whose unostenta- 
tious kindness I continue to feel most heartfelt 
gratitude, and to pray our heavenly Father to 
return their beneficence a thousand-fold into their 

bosoms. 

^ ' Their works of piet}^ and love, 

Performed through Christ, their Lord, 
Forever registered above, 
Shall meet a sure reward. ' ' 



THE OFFICERS OF SHILOH. 225 

I can have no doubt but that I am fully able to 
speak of the wants and self-denial of my brethren 
in the ministry ; for, if the church with which it 
has been my privilege to labor for the past twelve 
years cannot adequately support their pastor, it is 
idle to talk of the ability of others. I know of 
no church, and I am acquainted with nearly all 
of our churches in the country, that enjoys the 
services of better ofl&cers. The deacons are good 
men, enjoying the respect of their brethren and 
sisters, and of the congregation generally ; and I 
can have no doubt but that, under the direction 
of the Holy Spirit, and the labors of a faithful 
and judicious ministry, the church will ultimately 
succeed in establishing that system and uniformity 
so much needed in all of our churches, in order 
to the development of their strength, and growth 
in grace, and the prosecution of those works 
which advance the Eedeemer's kingdom among 
men. 

• And now, dear reader, we are brought to "the 
conclusion of the whole matter." I did not under- 
take this work because I vainly thought that I 
was better qualified for such a task than others 

of my brethren who are possessed of superior 
10^ 



226 REMARKS. 

advantages and material to write their biographies, 
but mainly because that no Baptist minister of my 
own color, born out of bondage (so far as 1 am 
aware), has ever performed the work. There are 
some, however, which have been written by breth- 
ren who were once ^^ slaves," whose books contain 
more romantic incidents, and which are doing 
much good by way of showing to the church and 
the world the operations of the system of slavery. 
Among those are the biographies of the Eev. 
Noah Davis, of Baltimore, and the Eev. Israel 
Campbell. " My Life in Bondage and my Life in 
Freedom," by the latter, is a most excellent work 
of that description, and will, I doubt not, receive, 
as it deserves, a large circulation. But these, 
although valuable as means to the end in view, 
are not of the description of books most needed to 
to assist in transmitting a history of our colored 
churches. "What appears to be most needed in 
the present day are historical and biographical 
facts, touching the trials, successes, and manage- 
ment of ministers and churches in building up the 
kingdom of the Lord, the manifestation of God's 
grace to us, when engaged in the performance of 
the work which He has given us to do, that He 
may be gloriticd, and that thus the hearts of 



CONCLUSION. 227 

brethren who may now be struggling with embar- 
rassment; and are ready to faint, may be encour- 
aged to put all their trust in the Lord of hosts, 
and not to shrink back because there is a lion in 
the way. I desire that brethren who come after 
us may learn, from the experience of their prede- 
cessors, that success will be insured in proportion 
as they "attempt great things for God," exercising 
faith in that divine strength which is sufficient for 
all things. Then will they persevere until the 
great object of their faith is attained. 

Should any of the above results follow the pub- 
lication of this short narrative, I shall feel to be 
amply compensated for my labor, and rejoice that 
in any way the Lord should be pleased to bless 
the humble efforts of one so unworthy a place in 
the kingdom of grace as that to which,- in His 
good providence, I have been assigned, and 
which, I trust, relying upon His aid, ever to 
magnify. And now to the Triune Grod be Praise, 
Power, and Dominion, for ever and ever, world 
without end. Amen. 



.6&J^ 4 



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